The moderating role of generalized anxiety disorder symptoms in the relationship between posttraumatic stress symptoms and depressive symptoms after the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake

Key Points

• To investigate how symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) influence the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and depressive symptoms after a disaster.
• Examined the interplay between PTSD and GAD symptoms
• Focused on depressive symptoms following the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake
• Considered comorbid conditions in assessing risks and interventions
• GAD symptoms significantly moderate the relationship between PTSD and depression
• Individuals with both PTSD and GAD show heightened depression vulnerability
• Findings underscore the need for integrated mental health interventions after disasters