How Wildfires Trigger Anxiety &PTSD
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
For many people who’ve lived through devastating wildfires, the psychological scars left by these natural disasters run deep, often leading to ongoing struggles with PTSD and anxiety. When the smoke clears, the mental scars remain. You might find yourself jumping at the faintest whiff of smoke or tensing up at the sight of orange skies. It’s not just you—studies show that many wildfire survivors grapple with anxiety and PTSD long after the flames die down.
Living in fire-prone areas means constantly looking over your shoulder. Even if your home’s untouched, the threat hangs heavy, wearing you down over time. This chronic stress can ignite serious mental health issues, leaving you feeling constantly on edge. Months or even years later, you might still find yourself:
Reliving the terror through vivid flashbacks
Struggling with depression or anxiety
Feeling jumpy and on high alert
Without proper support, these feelings can smolder, affecting your daily life long after the danger has passed.
Long-Term Effects of Wild Fires
Recent research on the 2018 Camp Fire in California paints a sobering picture. Those who faced the inferno head-on are more likely to grapple with chronic PTSD, anxiety, and depression long after the traumatic event. 67% of people directly exposed to the wildfire reported recent trauma. Compare that to just 14% of those indirectly affected and zero for those not exposed. These survivors often face real cognitive challenges, especially in processing tasks.
You don’t have to be in the fire’s path to feel its effects. Living with the constant threat of wildfires can take a serious toll on your mental health, too. It’s a wake-up call for all of us to take climate-related trauma seriously and support those affected, both directly and indirectly.
Psychological Impact of Wildfire Trauma
You’ve probably seen the haunting images of wildfire destruction on the news. But for those who’ve lived through it, the trauma is far worse. Take the Pacific Palisades devastation, vividly described by Billy Witz in the New York Times. The emotional scars linger long after the flames are extinguished.
You might think you’d bounce back after a wildfire, but the psychological impact is more severe for many. Flashbacks, nightmares, and intense anxiety aren’t just “normal stress”; they’re signs that trauma has shaken you to your core. This isn’t something to brush off or power through. PTSD from wildfires is very real and can affect anyone who’s experienced this terrifying ordeal.
If you’re feeling constantly on edge, having trouble sleeping, or find yourself avoiding anything that reminds you of the fire, you might be dealing with PTSD.
Why Trauma Impacts Individuals Differently
You might find yourself struggling more than others, and that’s okay. Your response to trauma is as unique as you are. Several factors, including your history and support system, have a role in how deeply you’re affected. If you’ve dealt with trauma before, a wildfire can hit differently. It’s just your brain trying to protect you based on past experiences.
For those of you already managing anxiety or depression, a wildfire can feel like adding fuel to the fire. Your existing symptoms might flare up, making everyday tasks seem more challenging. Your support network can make a world of difference. Having people to lean on can help buffer the impact of trauma. If you’re feeling isolated, reaching out for help can help you recover.
Mental Health Support for Survivors of Wildfire Trauma
After experiencing the devastation of wildfires, getting mental health support is crucial. Yet, many survivors hesitate to seek help. You might feel held back by stigma, lack of resources, or difficulty finding care. When left untreated, emotional struggles can snowball into a larger mental health crisis. Remember, you might face anxiety and PTSD immediately, while others may feel numb for months.
Trauma Therapy - San Diego, CA
Don’t let fear or uncertainty stop you from reaching out. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety or trauma recovery, personalized mental health care can make all the difference. We utilize CBT and EMDR therapy to help you process your traumatic experiences and rebuild your mental resilience. Book a consultation with us today.
Katherine Pica , LCSW - OCD Treatment - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica is the owner and clinical director of Resilience Counseling. She supervises all the therapists at Resilience counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 17 years! Trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine brings years of experience working with OCD to you. Available in San Diego, CA for session in person and all over California for virtual therapy.
Resilience Counseling specializes in OCD treatment and Trauma Therapy
We’re here to help you break free from the cycle of OCD and regain control over your life. Through evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), we provide the tools and support you need to manage intrusive thoughts and compulsions effectively.
You don’t have to navigate OCD alone. Let’s work together to help you build confidence, resilience, and a sense of peace. Contact us today to take the first step toward healing.
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
