Ozdemir, FilizSinanoglu, BercemDemir, AylinSen, Muserref EbruUcuz, IlknurKizilay, FatmaInceoglu, Feyza2026-04-042026-04-0420262045-2322https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40645-whttps://hdl.handle.net/11616/109314This study examines the relationship between physical activity levels and mental health in adolescents following an earthquake, focusing on community-based rehabilitation and interventions. A total of 389 adolescents (ages 11-17) participated in the current study. Post-traumatic stress (PTS) was assessed using DSM-5 Post-traumatic Stress Symptom Severity Scale, while depression and anxiety were evaluated using DSM-5 Level 2 Depression and Anxiety scales. Physical activity levels were measured with the Physical Activity Scale for Adolescents. Among participants, 48.3% were female and 51.7% were male. Strong positive correlations were found between Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severity and both depression (r = 0.738) and anxiety (r = 0.723), as well as between depression and anxiety (r = 0.754) (p = 0.001 for all). No significant relationship was observed between PTSD severity and physical activity or age (p > 0.05). A weak negative relationship existed between depression and physical activity (r=-0.228, p = 0.012), while a positive correlation was found between depression and age (r = 0.282, p = 0.001). Adolescents face significant psychological effects after earthquakes. Physical activity levels may decline due to reduced motivation and opportunities. Post-traumatic stress can also cause depression and anxiety in adolescents after a disaster such as an earthquake. Therefore, it's essential to encourage physical activity and implement appropriate programs in disaster-affected regions.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessPhysical activityMental healthAdolescentEarthquakeDisasterCommunity healthArticle1614177625610.1038/s41598-026-40645-wWOS:001714902000001Q1