Investigating the Relationship Between Anxiety-Stress Levels, Quality of Life, and Occupational Balance in Rescue Workers
Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness, vol.20, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 20
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1017/dmp.2026.10375
- Journal Name: Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest)
- Keywords: anxiety, occupational balance, Post-Traumatic, quality of life, Rescue Work, Stress Disorders
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Objective: This study investigates the relationship between anxiety-stress levels, quality of life, and occupational balance among rescue workers, exploring how daily activity satisfaction correlates with psychological well-being. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 74 rescue workers (87.8% male) between May and September 2023. Participants completed the Integrated Anxiety Stress Scale, WHOQOL-BREF, and the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ-T). Data analysis utilized non-parametric tests, including Spearman’s correlation and Kruskal-Wallis tests, to examine variables during the post-acute recovery phase of the February 2023 earthquakes. Results: Anxiety levels were low (81.1%), while quality of life and occupational balance were moderate to high. Significant negative correlations were identified between anxiety-stress and all quality of life domains (r= -0.45 to -0.62, p003C0.01), and occupational balance (r= -0.45, p<0.01). Occupational balance showed positive correlations with all quality of life domains (r= 0.43 to 0.55, p<0.01). Conclusions: Despite a professional culture of resilience, rescue workers face significant time poverty and life toll that disrupt daily rhythms. Enhancing occupational balance through organizational support and practical time management is essential for long-term well-being and job performance.