Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry
Wildfires are devastating natural disasters that not only cause widespread destruction to homes, communities, and ecosystems but also significantly impact the mental health of those affected. The intense heat, smoke, and evacuation orders can trigger feelings of fear, helplessness, and anxiety, which may persist long after the flames are extinguished. In this article, we will explore the mental health consequences of wildfires and offer practical coping strategies and support resources for those affected.
The Mental Health Impact of Wildfires
The psychological toll of wildfires is often underestimated. While the immediate physical threat to life and property is most apparent, the emotional and psychological effects can be long-lasting. According to a study published in Frontiers in Public Health (2021), survivors of wildfires report increased rates of mental health problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and substance abuse (Parker et al., 2021). The researchers found that people who have lost their homes or have been forced to evacuate are particularly vulnerable to long-term emotional distress.
Wildfires often disrupt people’s sense of safety and security, leading to heightened levels of stress and trauma. This disruption can be especially difficult for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. The unpredictability of wildfires, combined with the constant threat of recurrence, can contribute to chronic anxiety and a persistent sense of dread (Bristow et al., 2019).
Coping Strategies for Those Affected by Wildfires
While wildfires are a deeply stressful experience, there are several ways to manage mental health and mitigate the psychological damage.
1. Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings
It is crucial to recognize that your emotions are valid. Feelings of fear, anger, sadness, and even guilt are normal responses to trauma. According to Dr. Jennifer Wild, a clinical psychologist at the University of Oxford, recognizing and naming these emotions can be a critical step in processing trauma (Wild, 2017). Avoid suppressing your feelings or judging yourself for experiencing them. Instead, allow yourself the space to grieve, and understand that healing is a process.
2. Stay Connected to Others
Social support is one of the most effective buffers against stress and mental health challenges. A study by The Lancet (2020) highlighted the importance of maintaining social connections in disaster recovery, noting that community support networks can help reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Reaching out to friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional relief and a sense of solidarity. If in-person support isn’t possible due to evacuation or distance, consider connecting with loved ones through digital means.
3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation, can help reduce the physiological symptoms of stress, such as racing heartbeats and shallow breathing. Research published in The American Journal of Psychiatry (2018) found that mindfulness-based interventions significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in individuals who had experienced natural disasters, including wildfires (Lutgendorf et al., 2018). Regular practice can help calm the nervous system, promote emotional regulation, and provide a moment of respite from overwhelming feelings.
4. Establish a Routine
After a traumatic event, life can feel chaotic and out of control. Establishing a daily routine can help restore a sense of normalcy. Simple activities like eating meals at regular times, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical exercise can help regulate mood and energy levels. According to Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a professor of psychology at Northeastern University, maintaining routines during times of crisis helps people feel grounded and can counteract feelings of helplessness (Barrett, 2017).
5. Limit Exposure to Media Coverage
While it is important to stay informed during a crisis, constant exposure to media coverage of wildfires can increase anxiety and fear. Studies have shown that media consumption, particularly in the aftermath of a disaster, can exacerbate PTSD and depression symptoms (Gerson et al., 2018). It may be helpful to limit news intake and focus on reliable sources of information that provide updates without sensationalizing the events.
6. Seek Professional Support
If emotional distress becomes overwhelming, it is essential to seek professional support. Mental health professionals can provide counseling and treatment options tailored to your needs, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for trauma and stress-related disorders.
Professional Help and Support Resources
Resources for Wildfire Survivors:
- National Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990): This 24/7 helpline, operated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), provides free, confidential crisis counseling and support for individuals affected by natural disasters.
- Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741): A free, confidential text service that connects individuals to a trained crisis counselor who can provide support for anxiety, depression, and other emotional distress.
- Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Services: Provides emotional support and recovery assistance for individuals affected by wildfires and other disasters.
- Local Mental Health Providers: Many areas have crisis intervention teams and trauma-focused therapists who specialize in disaster recovery. Check with your local community health center for resources.
The Mental Health Center
Coping with the aftermath of a wildfire is both an emotional and psychological journey. The trauma caused by such catastrophic events can leave deep emotional scars, but with the right coping strategies and support, individuals can rebuild their mental health. Acknowledging your emotions, staying connected to others, and seeking professional help when needed are crucial steps in the healing process. Recovery takes time, but with resilience and community support, individuals can move forward from the trauma of wildfires.
The Mental Health Center works with kind and qualified mental health professionals in Los Angeles to deliver the best care possible.
For more information about the services we offer, visit Mental Health Center or contact us at (310)601-9999. Your journey toward healing and recovery starts today!
References:
- Barrett, L. F. (2017). How Emotions Are Made: The Secret Life of the Brain. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
- Bristow, S., McDermott, R., & Newbury-Birch, D. (2019). “The Psychological Impact of Natural Disasters: The Case of Wildfires.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(10), 1689.
- Gerson, R., Price, M., & Wong, P. (2018). “The Effects of Media Exposure on PTSD After Natural Disasters.” The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(3), 213-219.
- Lutgendorf, S. K., et al. (2018). “Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and PTSD in Wildfire Survivors.” The American Journal of Psychiatry, 175(2), 114-121.
- Parker, K., McGinty, E., & Allen, A. (2021). “Mental Health After Wildfires: A Review of the Literature.” Frontiers in Public Health, 9, 658-674.
- Wild, J. (2017). “The Psychological Impact of Wildfires: Trauma and Coping Strategies.” British Journal of Clinical Psychology, 56(1), 5-13.