ABSTRACT
The Campi Flegrei area, one of the most active volcanic regions in Italy, has faced a prolonged crisis, characterized by recurring seismic events. By adopting a psychosocial and community-based perspective, this study investigates how seismic and volcanic risk perception, perceived severity, trust in institutions and media, and coping strategies influence the psychological impact of the emergency. Additionally, residents’ psychosocial well-being was assessed using Keyes’ Mental Health Continuum Model, classifying participants as flourishing, moderate, or languishing. Data were collected through a questionnaire administered to 532 residents living in the Campi Flegrei red zone. Regression analyses showed that risk perception, perceived severity, and maladaptive coping strategies positively predicted psychological impact, while trust in sources negatively predicted it. ANOVA showed that languishing individuals reported worse psychological outcomes. These results highlight the urgent need for targeted community-based psychosocial interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of prolonged exposure to seismic and volcanic hazards.