this California wildfires left a lot shake immediatelyBut experts say the damage to mental health lasts longer than people realize.
Dr. Sue Varma, a psychiatrist and author of "Practical Optimism," recently told "CBS Morning News" that symptoms of trauma can appear days, weeks or even months after the event. .
It’s not just the immediate news of wildfire outbreaks that causes shock and fear, it’s also the unknown that many residents have about whether their homes will be affected, fueling anxiety. Those facing disaster are overwhelmed by uncertainty about their future and a sense of loss, and their grief homememories, career and Relatives. Many high performers are dealing with competing emotions, such as gratitude survivor's guilt Along with sadness.
Some people may not even realize they are dealing with mental health issues, said Dr. David Eisenman, a mental health expert at UCLA who specializes in public health and natural disaster-related research.
"People feel a racing heartbeat, a headache, or stomach problems in their body. They feel a physical sensation of anxiety, and they go to their primary care doctor, who may not find any physical problems, and may not find a mental health problem," he told CBS News, adding that this could leave patients untreated and potentially worse.
Not only can the devastation and sense of loss impact long-term mental health, the physical elements of these wildfires can also impact long-term mental health.
"We are now seeing evidence that Smoke causes psychological damage Even without the flames. That's really important because more people actually experience smoke," Eisenman said, explaining that smoke toxins can directly affect your brain.
In addition, there is the insulating effect of wildfire smoke.
"You have to stay at home. You can't enjoy the outdoors - the separation from the nature around you. People are saddened by the loss of the environment," he said.
Without the right support, mental health issues can persist for years, Eisenman said.
Research shows that a year after a disaster, as many as one-third of people who have directly experienced wildfires suffer from some kind of mental illness, such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
"If left untreated, these diseases can cause significant disability. They can make you literally unable to work. You can't function in life. They can affect your family functioning. They can affect your physical health," he said . "They can get worse and affect all these aspects of your life."
But despite the greater, longer-term need for help, Eisenman worries resources will begin to dwindle.
Eisenman said many people and organizations provided resources to help those affected by the fires, but "as time went on, the situation became more dangerous."
"Especially in neighborhoods, neighborhoods, where there are more people who have less insurance or no insurance," he said. "It's always hard for those in Los Angeles to access mental health care. It's going to get even harder over the next few months as we get out of the emergency phase where everyone is really willing to help, and then it kind of becomes More context.”
While there are disaster and trauma experts, any trained psychologist or psychiatrist can care for someone who has suffered a traumatic event, Eisenman said.
While anyone can be affected by these devastating conditions, Varma says to take special care if you experience dysfunction as a result. This can look like being unable to function, have a conversation or get through the day, she said.
"If you find that your functioning is impaired for two weeks or more and depression persists or you can't sleep at night, I would definitely seek help. Sometimes, for some people, it may even be just a little Having counseling helps a lot,” said Varma.
She said people may experience the following symptoms:
If professional help is hard to come by, Eisenman suggests two other coping strategies you can adopt on your own: limiting social media and volunteering.
“It’s very hurtful to see non-Angelenos commenting on the fires and using the fires as a platform to express political views, and that’s what a lot of the posts are about, if you live in Los Angeles,” he said. “You’re going to find that there’s very little that’s going to help you, and there’s a lot of toxicity.”
For those who are able, helping support the community can also be a fulfilling experience.
“It’s amazing to me to be part of a group of people in Los Angeles who are giving back,” Eisenman said. "I didn't do it for that reason, but it made me feel better."
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or crisis, you can contact 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988. You can also Chat with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here.
For more information Mental health care resources and supportThe National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or email info@nami.org.