Post-traumatic stress and depressive symptoms among adolescents after the 2015 earthquake in Nepal: a longitudinal study




Silwal Sanju, Chudal Roshan, Dybdah Ragnhild, Sillanmäki Lauri, Lien Lars, Sourander Andre

PublisherSpringer

2022

Child Psychiatry and Human Development

Psychiatry Hum Dev

53

430

439

10

0009-398X

1573-3327

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s10578-021-01136-3

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10578-021-01136-3

https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/52572558



Few longitudinal studies have focused on mental health problems among adolescents after earthquakes. We investigated changes in post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and depressive symptoms from 18 to 31 months after the 2015 earthquake in Nepal and explored potential risk factors associated with the change in psychiatric symptoms. This study comprised of 515 adolescents, aged 11–17 years from two earthquake-affected areas, one severely affected than the other. The psychiatric symptoms were assessed using the standardized Child Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Scale and the Depression Self-Rating Scale. No significant change was observed in the prevalence of PTSS and depressive symptoms from 18 to 31 months after the earthquake. Living in severely affected area and exposure to trauma after the earthquake were associated with adolescents who developed chronic or delayed PTSS and depressive symptoms. The study findings highlight the need for disaster preparedness and early interventions that strengthen support at various levels.


Last updated on 2024-26-11 at 16:06