As communities recover from the impacts of recent wildfires, many individuals are left coping with more than just physical loss. The emotional and psychological toll can linger long after the smoke has cleared.

It’s important to recognize when a normal reaction shifts into something more concerning. Emotional responses like fear, sadness, anger, or fatigue are natural and okay in the aftermath of a disaster. It may be a sign that someone needs additional mental health support if:

• these feelings become prolonged,
• are overwhelming,
• or begin to interfere with daily functioning.

Being aware of this distinction can help individuals and communities respond with compassion and connect people to the help they need.

How We Can Support Each Other:

• Check in with neighbors and coworkers. A simple conversation can be a lifeline.
• Create space to express emotions. Let people share at their own pace—without judgment. Remember not everyone, especially children and teens, may express emotions and needs the same way others do.
• Know the signs of distress. Fear, anger, sadness, worry, frustration, changes in sleep, appetite, energy or behavior, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, worsening physical health, and increases in use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs may indicate someone needs help.
• Encourage rest and recovery. Healing takes time. Support one another in slowing down and reconnecting with the people and activities you enjoy.
• Stay informed through the news and official sources. It can be helpful to stay informed of resources and steps to recovery. Yet too much can increase stress and anxiety. Taking brief breaks from the news cycle can help find a good balance. Perhaps tag-team who will look at information and report any new, essential information to others, with the responsibility shifting over set time intervals.

Resources Are Available

• Disaster Distress Helpline:
  • 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746
  • Call or text 988 24/7 or access other support lines
  • Call or text 988 24/7
  • https://www.nwpeersupport.org/ Peer Support Resources for First Responders
  • Healthcare Provider Mental Health and Crisis Support Resource Page
• Mid-Columbia Center for Living https://www.mccfl.org/
  1060 Webber Street the Dalles, OR 97058
  Phone: 541-296-5452
• Youth/Family Resources:
  • Helping Children Cope with Disaster - a FEMA guidance document
    (Spanish version here)
  • Ready Wrigley: Coping with Disaster (children’s coloring book)
  • National Child Traumatic Stress Network
    Fire Recovery Resources
    Trinka and Sam The Big Fire book (English version)
    Trinka y Juan El Gran Fuego libro (Spanish version)
    "Taking Care of Yourself" use this list to help you decide which self-care strategies will work for you

As homes are rebuilt and landscapes are restored, let us also care for hearts and minds. Resilience is strongest when we support one another.