A new study has shed light on the psychological effects of earthquake-related news on the public, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake in Türkiye. This comprehensive investigation, focusing on the digital coverage of the disaster, highlights the emotional responses triggered by media reports, raising concerns about the impact such coverage may have on mental health. The findings were published in the International Journal of Mental Health.
The research analysed over 1,300 news articles published by Türkiye’s most-read newspaper in the months following the earthquake. The articles, which ranged from breaking news to in-depth reports, were found to evoke a broad spectrum of emotional responses, including anxiety, sadness, hope, and anger.
Researchers identified that the tone and content of earthquake news significantly affected readers’ psychological states. Headlines focusing on the magnitude of destruction and loss often heightened feelings of anxiety, while reports on rescue operations and support efforts brought a sense of hope. The study raises critical questions about the role of media in both informing the public and safeguarding mental health during crises.
The study categorised the emotional impact of earthquake news into four primary themes: anxiety, hope, sadness, and anger. Anxiety was the dominant theme, as many headlines highlighted the ongoing threat of aftershocks and the physical devastation caused by the earthquake. The frequent use of alarming language, such as “disaster”, “devastation”, and “destruction”, was found to exacerbate fear and panic among readers.
The researchers noted that continuous exposure to such headlines could intensify stress, particularly for those indirectly affected by the disaster. Moreover, the news often included graphic images of debris, damaged buildings, and even victims, further amplifying the emotional toll on readers.
But not all the news coverage was negative. Reports about rescue missions, international aid, and local efforts to rebuild shattered communities fostered feelings of hope and solidarity. These articles often emphasised resilience, portraying the recovery process and the collective efforts of people to help one another in the face of adversity.
While disaster journalism plays a crucial role in keeping the public informed, the study warns that sensationalist reporting can have unintended consequences. Constant exposure to distressing news, particularly when accompanied by graphic imagery, may lead to increased anxiety and, in severe cases, trigger posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study highlights the importance of balancing the need to inform with the responsibility to protect public mental health.
The authors of the study call for greater collaboration between media outlets and mental health professionals. They argue that ethical reporting guidelines should be developed to ensure that news coverage does not further harm individuals already experiencing trauma.
Additionally, they recommend that media organisations avoid terms such as “earthquake victim”, which can stigmatise those affected by the disaster, and instead use neutral language like “survivors” or “affected individuals”.
The findings underscore the need for responsible journalism in the wake of disasters. Media outlets are urged to be mindful of the psychological impact of their reporting, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters like Türkiye. By fostering ethical practices and working closely with mental health experts, news organisations can help mitigate the emotional burden on the public while still delivering essential information.
