Posttraumatic symptoms were worst among quake victims with injuries following the Chi-chi quake in Taiwan.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychological health status among earthquake victims 1 year after the quake. METHOD: Two hundred and seventy-two quake victims from temporary housing units were interviewed. Posttraumatic symptoms was assessed using the Davidson Trauma Scale, Chinese version (DTS-C). Psychological health status was measured using the Chinese Health Questionnaire (CHQ). RESULTS: The percentage of posttraumatic symptoms was 16.5%. Fifty-seven percent of the victims were found to have psychological problems using the CHQ. Posttraumatic symptoms and psychological problems were more prevalent among women (22.2% and 64%), compared with men (9.2% and 47.9%). Posttraumatic symptoms and CHQ total scores were highest among 25- to 44-year-olds, and lowest in the over-60-year group. Based on linear and logistic regression models, age and injury were the only two factors that significantly affected posttraumatic symptoms and CHQ total scores. CONCLUSION: Consistent with the previous studies, it is vitally important to continue providing psychological counseling and social support for quake victims, particularly victims who sustained an injury.