Private Blog Network – Dr. Jyoti Mishra, associate director of the UC Climate Change and Mental Health Council and psychiatry professor at the University of California, San Diego, understands firsthand the mental strain wildfires impose. Although her city isn’t currently facing wildfires, her family from Los Angeles has sought refuge in her San Diego home after evacuating due to ongoing fires.
“All our family from LA is here with us, and we’re happy they’ve made it,” Mishra shared. “We’re hoping their home is safe up there, but we don’t know yet.”
This uncertainty—whether about the safety of a home, a neighborhood, or a community—is a significant factor contributing to mental health challenges among wildfire survivors. Research indicates that people affected by wildfires often experience increased rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Mishra’s research on the 2018 Camp Fire in Northern California revealed stark mental health disparities between wildfire survivors and those from unaffected communities. “It’s not just emotional,” she explained. “Our studies show it’s cognitively impactful too. When surrounded by constant threats, focusing becomes incredibly difficult.”
As wildfires rage across the Los Angeles area, threatening hundreds of thousands of people under evacuation orders, the mental health toll is substantial. Beyond the immediate danger, wildfire survivors often endure lasting psychological effects. Mishra’s studies highlight that symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD can persist for months or even years after the flames have been extinguished.
The growing prevalence of wildfires underscores the need for comprehensive mental health support for survivors. “Recovery doesn’t just mean rebuilding homes; it also means addressing the invisible wounds these disasters leave behind,” Mishra emphasized.
The Hidden Mental Health Impact of Wildfires
Wildfires are not just a threat to physical safety; they also leave deep emotional and psychological scars. In the short term, studies show that wildfires can destabilize individuals, leading to stress, anger, sadness, shock, depression, and frustration. These intense emotions often manifest as disrupted sleep, nightmares, loss of appetite, and reliance on drugs or alcohol to cope.
Long-term impacts can be equally severe. Depression, anxiety, and trauma may persist long after the fires are extinguished, affecting individuals who had no prior mental health concerns. Research indicates that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can last anywhere from three months to over a decade following a wildfire.
Dr. Yang Liu, chair of environmental health at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, highlights another concern: wildfire smoke. His 2024 study found a strong link between exposure to heavy smoke and increased emergency visits for anxiety disorders, with women, girls, and older adults being particularly vulnerable. “Inhaling smoke can trigger anxiety disorders,” Liu explained. “LA’s air quality levels are currently 10 to 20 times above the national average, posing a severe risk to the entire Southern California region.”
To protect physical and mental health, Liu advises limiting smoke exposure by keeping windows closed, avoiding outdoor activities, and using HEPA filters in air conditioning systems or standalone units.
Children are also deeply affected by wildfires. While they may exhibit resilience, they often feel helpless during such crises, noted Dr. Sabrina Renteria, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Cedars-Sinai. She reported an increase in children seeking emergency mental health care during wildfires. “We anticipate a significant rise in mental health issues among children,” Renteria said, underscoring the need for proactive care and emotional support during and after wildfire events.
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Helping Children Cope with Wildfire Stress
Children are highly intuitive and can sense when something is wrong, making open communication essential during wildfire events. Dr. Sabrina Renteria, a child and adolescent psychiatrist at Cedars-Sinai, encourages parents to talk honestly with their children about their emotions. She suggests saying things like, “Yes, I’m feeling sad today,” while also explaining coping strategies, such as listening to music or practicing deep-breathing exercises.
Renteria emphasizes the importance of reestablishing routines for children as quickly as possible. Regular schedules, attending classes, and reconnecting with friends provide stability and help children regain a sense of normalcy. Parents should model healthy coping mechanisms since children often mimic adult behaviors.
Limiting exposure to distressing news or social media is equally important. Adults should preview news stories and use them to highlight the positive actions of first responders and volunteers. “Shift the narrative from doom to a thrive-and-survive mindset,” Renteria advises.
Strengthening Resilience Through Community and Mindfulness
Wildfires can cause profound emotional stress, but fostering community connections and mindfulness can help mitigate long-term effects. Dr. Jyoti Mishra, a psychiatrist at UC San Diego, recommends mindfulness exercises to stay present and reduce the impact of past trauma. Volunteering to assist displaced individuals can also provide a sense of purpose and emotional relief for both adults and children.
Mishra stresses the importance of collective healing through family and community support. Social isolation should be avoided, as those with stronger social ties tend to recover more quickly. For those outside affected areas, reaching out to friends and family impacted by wildfires can make a significant difference.
Providing material support, like donating funds for food or basic necessities, can help evacuees focus on rebuilding their lives. “With climate change, this isn’t isolated,” Mishra warns. “One day, any of us could face this.”