For days, uncontrollable wildfires have swept through Los Angeles, reducing people’s homes, livelihoods, and sense of stability to rubble. On a physical level, the fires present an obvious threat, with an estimated 24 casualties to date and rising concerns about poor air quality. What hasn’t been discussed as much, however, is the heavy mental toll of the LA fires.
Whether you’re dealing with stress caused from navigating the fires yourself or experiencing anxiety from checking up on loved ones, it’s important to know that there are resources available. “Experiencing natural disasters is a trauma,” says Shairi Turner, MD, MPH, chief health officer at Crisis Text Line. “Loss of life, loss of loved ones, and loss of a home/residence and community can be extremely disruptive, especially for those with existing mental health issues.” Even if your social media feed is beginning to move on, the mental health effects of the wildfires are far from over.
To help you deal with the psychological effects of the fires, we asked Dr. Turner to share some tips for coping with trauma. Read on for a few expert-approved ways to take care of yourself, move forward, and support loved ones affected by the fires (even from afar).
Experts Featured in This Article:
Shairi Turner, MD, MPH, is an internist and pediatrician with expertise in trauma-informed practices. She is also the chief health officer at Crisis Text Line.
Mental Health Effects of the LA Fires
Although researchers are still studying the long-term effects of wildfires on mental health and well-being, it’s clear that these kinds of natural disasters can take a toll. “In the short-term, the panic of physical health and safety prevails,” Dr. Turner explains. “Once the acute emergency has passed, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms can debilitate survivors for months and possibly years to come.” Dr. Turner adds that everyone impacted by the wildfires will need support in the coming months. “This also includes our first responders,” she says. Common symptoms following a natural disaster like the LA wildfires may include:
- Panic
- Sleeplessness
- Worry
- Repetitive thoughts
- Feelings of guilt
How to Cope With Wildfire Stress and Anxiety
For those dealing with stress and anxiety caused by the wildfires, here are a few tips from Dr. Turner. Just note that it’s always best to consult with a doctor or mental health professional for any personalized medical advice.
- Create an Emergency Plan: If you’re anxious about a possible evacuation, concrete planning can help you feel less stressed. “Ensure you have necessary supplies, know evacuation routes, and communicate the plan with family and friends,” Dr. Turner says. You can also learn how to pack a go bag here.
- Focus on What You Can Control: “Concentrate on tasks and actions you can manage, like preparing an emergency kit, rather than worrying about things beyond what you can control,” Dr. Turner advises.
- Lean on Your Support Network: The local community can be a huge help in natural disasters. Family, friends, and neighbors can all help you feel less stressed — or at least provide support when you need it most.
- Set Boundaries: If you’re navigating the fires in LA, it’s important to stay informed. However, setting boundaries on social media can also be useful for your mental health. “Even if you are not directly affected by the fires and you’re feeling anxious about the ongoing news coverage, try limiting your news exposure,” Dr. Turner suggests. “Stay informed, but set boundaries to avoid feeling overwhelmed.”
- Make Time For Self-Care: “Practice self-care by taking breaks, making sure you get enough rest, and maintaining a healthy routine,” Dr. Turner says. Certain grounding techniques can also be a huge help when dealing with anxiety.
- Ask For Help: For more immediate support, you can reach out to Crisis Text Line by texting HELLO or HOLA to 741741. From there, you’ll be connected to a live, trained volunteer crisis counselor. The text line is free, confidential, and available 24/7 to anyone dealing with stress or anxiety, Dr. Turner says. You can also text the keyword “LA” to the same number to be connected to a crisis counselor.
How to Support Those Dealing With the Wildfires
If you’re not directly affected by the wildfires, you may be wondering how to support loved ones in LA. According to Dr. Turner, one of the best things you can do is simply check in and offer resources where needed. If you’re having a hard time finding the words, here are a few conversations starters Dr. Turner recommends:
- Hey [Name], I’ve been thinking about you with everything going on in your area. How are
you holding up? If you need anything or just want to talk, I’m here for you. - Hi [Name], I know the wildfire situation has been really tough. Please let me know if
there’s anything I can do to help or if you just want to chat. You’re not alone in this.
Chandler Plante (she/her) is an assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group.
Chandler Plante
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