Finding help after dealing with a wildfire in California may be an essential move you should make after experiencing this severe problem. Whether you’re a first responder, recovery worker or an individual who lived in the area where the tragedy occurred, receiving support may be highly beneficial to help you cope with this ordeal.
Wildfires Can Cause Emotional Distress
Being in an area where wildfires occur can quickly wreak havoc in your life. Sparked by lightning or an accident, this type of fire may go unnoticed and then spread quickly, waging a destructive path. Getting caught in an area where a wildfire occurs can be frightening and lead to emotional distress days or weeks later.
Who May Experience Emotional Distress from a Wildfire Incident?
If you live in an area where the terrain provides fuel for a wildfire, you never know when one will strike. Experiencing a wildfire can be emotionally distressful for different kinds of individuals, including:
- First responders. Working on the front lines of a wildfire can be physically and emotionally draining. You’re probably separated from your loved ones for an extended period and exposed to a significant amount of tragedy. You may even suffer an injury or have coworkers who get hurt.
- Elderly individuals. If you’re an older adult with a physical mobility challenge, experiencing a wildfire can be scary. Having to evacuate an area quickly can be highly stressful in your condition.
- Children and young adults. Going through a wildfire evacuation as a child can be traumatic. After the ordeal is over, a kid may start worrying it will happen again, especially if his or her home was burned to the ground.
Getting Help
Resources are available if you or your loved ones find it challenging to deal with the aftermath of a wildfire. Calling the Disaster Distress Helpline at (800) 985-5990 is an excellent option you may want to utilize.
Recognizing you have been through a terrible situation and getting the support you need may be your best option if you’re worrying a lot or still have bad memories related to the wildfire.