Citation

Akbiyik DI, Coskun B, Sümbüloǧlu V, Tuǧcu H, Sayil I. Int. J. Ment. Health 2004; 33(1): 39-45.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, M.E. Sharpe)

DOI

10.1080/00207411.2004.11043364

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate whether a traumatic experience such as an earthquake has any effect on the probability of suicide, especially in those who seem psychologically healthy. Prevention and support parameters are evaluated.

METHOD: Two groups of thirty-five people each were compared regarding their probability of committing suicide. One group had experienced an earthquake and the other had not. A Suicide Probability Scale and a questionnaire on the socioeconomic and health status of the groups were used.

RESULTS: The total scores of the Suicide Probability Scale show no significant difference between the groups. But there was a significant difference between the two groups in that those with earthquake experience had a dominant feeling of hopelessness.

CONCLUSION: Earthquake experience was not a risk factor in suicidal ideation, especially for those who have no social network disturbance, no loss of life in the family, and no major psychiatric illness. Feeling prepared for the possibility of coming disasters and supporting each other seem to be factors that prevent negative feelings.

Language: en

Keywords

human; earthquake; suicide attempt; risk factor; article; comparative study; mental disease; controlled study; questionnaire; health status; social status; parameter