Information and Support Message for Dormitory Students

Department of Student Development and Experience

Psychological Development Unit

Information and Support Message for Students Staying in Dormitories

Dear Students,

The earthquake that occurred in Istanbul on April 23, 2025, may have aroused various emotional responses in all of us. Such natural disasters can challenge not only physical safety but also psychological resilience. Especially for university students staying in dormitories, being away from their families and close surroundings may intensify their experience during this process.

The purpose of this letter is to remind you of the naturalness of the emotional reactions you are experiencing, guide you on how to support yourself and those around you, and inform you about the services we provide as the Psychological Development Unit.

Emotional Reactions After the Earthquake: Natural and Temporary

When faced with sudden and uncontrollable events like an earthquake;

• Feelings of insecurity,
• Intense anxiety and worry,
• Insomnia or nightmares,
• Hyperarousal,
• Episodes of crying or emotional fluctuations may develop. These reactions are natural responses that your body and mind exhibit in an extraordinary situation (Yılancıoğlu & Özbaran, 2023). These symptoms are usually temporary and diminish over time.

How to Support Yourself and Those Around You?

To Support Yourself:

• Try to maintain your routines as much as possible.
• Don't hesitate to express your feelings. If you don't feel like talking, try expressing yourself in written or creative ways.
• Keep your social connections intact; staying in touch with friends enhances emotional resilience.
• Limit media and social media exposure to reduce mental burden (Dinç and Boz, 2023).

To Support Your Friends:

• Clearly express your readiness to listen.
• Be a listener without judgment and avoid offering solutions.
• If needed, guide them to the Psychological Development Unit together.
• When providing support, also consider your own boundaries; don't hesitate to seek support yourself when you feel challenged (Diaz, 2024).

We Are Here for You as the Psychological Development Unit

The Clinical Psychologists of the Psychological Development Unit continue to stand by all our students during this process. If you feel you are struggling to cope with these emotions, know that you are not alone. Be understanding towards yourself during this process, recognize your needs, and don't hesitate to seek help if necessary.

We, as Clinical Psychologists of the Psychological Development Unit, are always here for you. If you wish to share your feelings, make sense of the process, or simply talk, you can request support by sending an email to counseling@ozyegin.edu.tr.

Team of the Psychological Development Unit

References

Diaz, J. O. P. (2024). Mental and Psychosocial Health in Community Mobilization: Navigating Challenges and Building Strengths. Psychology, 15(8), 1402-1410.

Dinç, M., & Boz, C. Psychosocial support initiatives in the aftermath of the 2023 earthquakes.

Yılancıoğlu, H. Y., & Özbaran, B. (2023). Psychiatric effects of earthquakes on children and adolescents.