More than 18 thousand structures were destroyed and 29 people killed in the Eaton and Palisades fires in southern California.
Whilst the fires burned for 24 days, the recovery efforts are just beginning and experts say the mental health impacts could be long lasting.
“Especially for those who have had to evacuate from their home or have lost their home to a fire, feelings of confusion, grief, and anxiety can be overwhelming. Although it can be difficult to put one foot in front of the other, it is best to seek support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals. Disaster response teams are generally well trained in offering, psychological support and direction for those who have been displaced. Local news and radio stations often provide excellent information to support those who are suffering as a result of a fire or other natural disaster. Although some people believe that they should just tough it out and be strong, it’s wise to reach out for support if you feel anxious or overwhelmed,” Carla Marie Manly, a clinical psychologist based in California told Theravive.
Manly has herself evacuated from her home in northern California three times due to fires. The closest fire came within 100 yard of her home.
She says that navigating life following a fire can be challenging for many.
“For those who have lost their homes in a fire, the rebuilding process can take many years. Not only is it difficult to navigate the insurance system, but finding reputable builders and sufficient supplies can be extraordinarily difficult. And for those who are struggling financially, rebuilding may not be possible at all. Flexibility and patience are key to being able to rebuild in a psychologically healthy way,” she said.
“Yet, given the near Herculean task of rebuilding, the strain of putting all the puzzle pieces together can wreak havoc on even those with excellent physical and mental health. Unfortunately, those who have less than the way of financial resources often pay the highest price. As well, those who have excellent support in the way of friends, family, and faith-based groups, often fair better than those who have limited support. And the pain of losing priceless possessions—such as photographs, cherished mementos, and family heirlooms— is a crushing blow that makes the entire disaster that much more unbearable.”
She advises that even those whose homes remain standing following the fires may still benefit from mental health support. These people may also be at risk of experiencing feelings of guilt.
“Survivor’s guilt is very common among those whose homes were spared. Especially if friends and family have lost their homes, some almost wish that their home had also been taken. In some cases, it can feel very dark and lonely—rather than joyful— to return to a burnt out neighborhood where your home was one of the few spared. Some find that they cannot bear to live in the neighborhood any longer. Others find that they can cope by helping others who were not as fortunate. If survivor’s guilt lingers, it is important to get mental health support to be able to move through the painful feelings,” she said.
One of the strategies Manly suggests for coping following a traumatic natural disaster is to avoid looking at images of the disaster on television or social media. She argues this can be traumatic both for those living in the area of the disaster and those further away.
Instead, she advises keeping up to date with information via radio or written media.
She says it is also important to pay attention to any changing mental health symptoms that may warrant further attention.
“It is normal for feelings of anxiety, sadness, and even anger to well up during the first days and weeks following a natural disaster. However, if the feelings worsen or become chronic, it is important to seek mental health support. It is also important to pay attention to shifts in sleep patterns, eating behaviors, and substance use. Although some disruption in daily routine and general habits is normal at first, the goal is to create as much smoothness and consistency as soon as possible,” she told Theravive.
“If you are suffering after experiencing a fire or other natural disaster, please reach out for mental health support. The earlier you reach out for support, the sooner you will gain coping strategies that give you hope, strength, and resilience. Although it’s always important to feel connected, it is especially important after a natural disaster to know that you have community around you. Rebuilding your life after a natural disaster feels much more possible when you have others to support you.”