The relationship between symptoms of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder and social media addiction after an earthquake

Aim: Social media addiction leads individuals to develop a constant need to use social media platforms, resulting in increased usage duration. Individuals with symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder might become dependent on substances or behaviors to balance and calm their restlessness, agitated thoughts, and behaviors. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms and Social Media Addiction levels. Additionally, given that our study will be conducted in the aftermath of an earthquake disaster, the second objective is to review the connection between attention deficit and social media usage in relation to losses and/or traumatic experiences from the earthquake. Material and Method: The cross-sectional research conducted at Laçin Family Health Center involved 214 voluntary participants aged 18 to 60 who were literate. Those with advanced cognitive impairments, mental or physical limitations preventing them from continuing the study were excluded. Participants completed the sociodemographic data form, Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale, and Social Media Addiction Scale-Adult Form in a specially prepared setting at the Family Health Center. Results: The participants comprised 45.8% females and 54.2% males. The average age of participants was 39.5±11.5 years, ranging from 18 to 60. 65.4% were married, and participants with higher education levels, particularly university graduates, were found to be 45.8%. In terms of occupation distribution, self-employed individuals constituted the largest group (37.9%), followed by civil servants (25.2%), and housewives (15.4%). Participants who had lost a family member due to the earthquake had lower virtual communication scores and median total scores (p=0.031). In all participants, positive correlations were observed between the total scores and sub-scores of the Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Self-Report Scale and Social Media Addiction Scale-Adult Form. Conclusions: The study establishes an association between symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Social Media Addiction. Given the effects of earthquake disasters, this study will serve as a guide in developing effective strategies for both preventive and therapeutic healthcare services, contributing to a healthier community lifestyle. Keywords: Earthquake, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Social Media Addiction