The LA Fires have caused many people to experience grief.
The Merriam Webster dictionary defines grief as:
“A deep and poignant distress caused by or as if by bereavement.”
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Many of the LA residents have been experiencing symptoms related to grief and trauma. The LA wildfires have caused a large population to suffer from mental distress. In other words, the California fires have caused people to experience issues related to their mental health. There are many ways people can handle grief and trauma. It is important to find the best healing method that works for you.
What Are The Mental Health Risks Associated With The California Wildfires?
It is crucial to recognize how one’s mental health may be affected by the California Wildfires. According to CBC news, “The Palisades and Eaton fires are already among the most destructive in California’s history, scorching more than 10,000 structures in just a matter of days.”
The LA fires are destroying the homes of many families. There are schools, homes, offices, restaurants all being affected by these fires. For many people, these buildings hold meaning to them. There are LA residents experiencing the mental stress caused by the LA fires. Mentally is it difficult to digest the image and thought of your city being caught in flames.
Some risks associated with the California wildfires are anxiety, depression, paranoia, and more. People in LA may be in fear of the uncertainty related to the duration and size of these wildfires. According to UCLA Health, the sense of emergency is anxiety inducing. The article also explains how the psychological distress caused by the LA fires varies from person to person. It is critical to remind ourselves of the loss that many people are facing in LA.
How To Recognize The Grief From The LA Fires
It is important to check in with yourself and ask “am I okay?” The LA fires have caused many people to feel grief. The amount of damage the fires have inflicted on the LA community is severe. Not only are LA fire victims experiencing grief but also those who were not affected by the fires living in LA. This is commonly known as survivors’ guilt.
In order to recognize the grief being experienced, one must acknowledge the traumatic event that took place. For instance, LA fire victims need to recognize the devastation that occurred in order to receive the proper resources needed to heal.
5 Steps To Heal And Rebuild After The LA Fires
- Acknowledge The Severity Of The LA Fires That Took Place
- Try to recognize the trauma caused by these California wildfires.
- Regain Emotional Stability
- Try practicing breathing techniques or meditation in order to regulate the nervous system.
- Decrease Screen Time
- Try to limit the amount of time spent looking at the news and/or media related to the LA fires.
- Spend Time With Loved Ones
- Being surrounded by the people you love can reduce feelings related to stress and anxiety.
- Practice Having Patience For Yourself During Your Healing Journey
- Everyone heals differently. Your version of healing may be different than someone else healing from the LA fires.
The Importance Of Seeking Support If You Are A LA Fire Victim
As an LA fire victim, it is important to receive the proper support needed after undergoing a traumatic event. The LA fires have impacted thousands of people across LA county. It is crucial for LA fire victims to receive the help they need in order to process all of the emotions they are enduring.
People affected by the LA fires need to prioritize their mental health. For example, it is important to discuss your emotions and struggles with a loved one. The people close to you can provide you with the comfort you need to start moving forward. You can also receive support through meeting with a mental health professional.
The Importance Of Community To Support Grievers Of The LA Fires
Community can bring many people together. People affected by the LA fires can reach out to other people within their community who also experienced similar loss. There are several support groups located throughout LA that help people who are grieving from the fires. Support groups can also inform LA fire victims of the resources and support options that exist.
