Psychosocial Insights From the Frontlines: Turkish Rescue Workers in the Aftermath of the 2023 Turkiye–Syria Earthquakes

Abstract

Objective: The chaotic environments in which rescue workers operate increase their exposure to physical danger and psychosocial trauma. Despite the growing frequency and severity of natural disasters, the psychosocial impact of disaster response on rescue workers remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to examine the psychosocial effects of disaster response efforts on Turkish rescue workers involved in the 2023 Türkiye–Syria earthquakes. Method: A qualitative phenomenological design was employed. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 16 Turkish rescue workers who participated in search and rescue operations following the 2023 Türkiye–Syria earthquakes. The interview data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The findings showed that rescue workers' experiences in the field imposed a substantial emotional and social burden, often with continuing effects after deployment. Participants reported difficulties in meeting basic needs, reductions in cognitive functioning and distress triggered by reminders such as children, older adults and construction sites. To cope with these experiences, they used both problem-focussed and emotion-focussed strategies. Alongside these adverse effects, participants also reported heightened disaster awareness and changes in life priorities. Conclusion: Disaster response may have enduring psychosocial effects on rescue workers while also contributing to increased awareness and personal reappraisal. Based on these findings, rescue workers should receive pre-disaster training to strengthen professionalism and coordination as well as effective post-disaster psychosocial support following deployment. © 2026 British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.