First responders across the nation are heading to Southern California as apocalyptic wildfires continue to rage across some of the most populated areas of the state. They'll be focused on halting the devastation, but psychological experts are bracing for an aftermath of another kind.
According to studies, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the most common mental health disorder following natural disasters, with a prevalence of 30% to 40%.
Ian Stanley, PhD, an assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and psychological health lead for the CU Anschutz Center for Combat Medicine and Battlefield (COMBAT) Research, has treated both victims and first responders following natural disasters and says it’s imperative to understand the significant mental health toll these events can take. He says California's recovery will be challenging because the number of mental health resources that will be needed for a disaster of this magnitude.
Below, Laura Kelley, media relations professional in the CU Anschutz Office of Communications, speaks with Stanley about how first responders can care for themselves and their colleagues while assisting in rescue and recovery efforts. He also shares how people who have been through similar traumas can minimize triggers as they watch the tragedy of the California wildfires unfold in the media.