NCT07474259

Aerobic Exercise Intervention for PTSD Symptoms and Sleep Quality After Earthquake

Effects of Aerobic Exercise on PTSD and Sleep: A Randomized Controlled Trial

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 82 (actual)
• Sponsor: Malatya Turgut Ozal University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 16 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial aims to examine the effects of a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and sleep quality among earthquake survivors living in temporary accommodation centers. Participants are randomly assigned to either an exercise intervention group or a control group. The intervention group participates in supervised aerobic exercise sessions twice per week for three weeks. PTSD symptoms and sleep quality are assessed before and after the intervention using validated measurement tools. The study aims to provide evidence on the effectiveness of structured aerobic exercise in improving psychological well-being and sleep quality among individuals affected by natural disasters.

Detailed description

Natural disasters such as earthquakes can lead to significant psychological consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and sleep disturbances. Individuals who experience earthquakes and continue to live in temporary accommodation conditions may remain exposed to ongoing stressors that negatively affect their mental health and overall well-being. Physical activity has been suggested as a potentially beneficial non-pharmacological intervention for improving psychological health and sleep quality. Aerobic exercise in particular has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and regulate sleep patterns. However, there is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of structured aerobic exercise programs for earthquake survivors living in temporary settlement areas. This randomized controlled study investigates the effects of a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program on PTSD symptoms and sleep quality among adult earthquake survivors residing in temporary accommodation centers. Participants who meet the inclusion criteria are randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group participates in supervised aerobic exercise sessions conducted twice per week for three weeks, resulting in a total of six exercise sessions. The control group continues their routine daily activities without participating in the exercise program. Outcome measures include PTSD symptom severity and sleep quality assessed before and after the intervention using validated scales. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the development of evidence-based psychosocial and behavioral interventions aimed at improving mental health outcomes among populations affected by natural disasters.

Conditions

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Sleep Disturbance

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Exercise Program	A structured moderate-intensity aerobic exercise program delivered in group sessions over three weeks. The program consisted of six sessions including warm-up exercises, aerobic activity, and cool-down periods. The intervention aimed to reduce posttraumatic stress symptoms and improve sleep quality among earthquake survivors living in temporary accommodation settings.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-09-01
• Primary completion: 2026-02-15
• Completion: 2026-02-15
• First posted: 2026-03-16
• Last updated: 2026-03-17

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)