# Social withdrawal of Barış Özbay in Hatay

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/social-withdrawal-of-bar-zbay-in-hatay
> Updated: 2026-11-01T13:50:08.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Barış Özbay, a resident of Hatay, Turkey, has drawn public attention due to his extreme social isolation and digital addiction. Initial reports suggested his condition was a response to the Kahramanmaraş centered earthquakes, which resulted in the loss of his home and relatives. During that period, he reportedly refused medical aid and expressed a desire to remain in his current lifestyle, stating, “I don’t want anything, I am happy.”

In later developments, Özbay clarified that his social withdrawal, a condition similar to “hikikomori,” actually began during his university years, prior to the earthquakes. He described his isolation as a way to avoid adult responsibilities. His physical health has reportedly declined, with mentions of painful, swollen joints and a lack of medical treatment for several years. His mother continues to manage the household alone amidst significant financial difficulties.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-01: Barış Özbay discusses three year social isolation in Hatay

Barış Özbay, a 26-year-old in Hatay, Turkey, has detailed his three-year social isolation, citing a desire to avoid adult responsibilities and declining physical health.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bar-zbay-discusses-three-year-social-isolation-in-hatay

### 2026-10-04: Barış Özbay refuses medical aid following earthquake-related digital addiction

Barış Özbay, a young man in Hatay affected by the earthquakes, has returned home after hospital treatment but continues to struggle with digital addiction and refuses further intervention.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bar-zbay-rejects-treatment-for-digital-addiction-in-hatay

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Cite as: Social withdrawal of Barış Özbay in Hatay. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/social-withdrawal-of-bar-zbay-in-hatay