Earthquake and mental health of healthcare workers: A systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review aims to examine the psychological effects of earthquakes on healthcare workers and the related variables influencing these psychological effects. This study includes 11 research articles that assessed the psychological effects of earthquakes on healthcare workers by categorizing them under various mental health outcomes. Through keyword searches in databases, it was observed that healthcare workers experienced posttraumatic stress disorder, burnout, depression, stress, and decline in quality of life. Factors affecting the mental health of healthcare workers after earthquakes include gender, professional and earthquake-related factors, personality traits, social support, coping strategies, psychological resilience, and meeting personal needs. The review study provides important clues for interventions that could reduce negative mental health effects on healthcare workers following earthquakes.

Keywords

• earthqauke
• healthcare workers
• psychological health
• mental health
• post-traumatic stress