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As the people of Los Angeles begin to process the aftermath of the historic wildfires that ravaged the region last month, there’s no question that healing from this collective trauma will take time. The Eaton and Palisades fires—among the most destructive in California history—devastated entire communities across Altadena and the Pacific Palisades, where families have lived for generations.
Coping with the immeasurable loss—of life, homes, and belongings—after a natural disaster will be an ongoing process. NewsOne spoke with Dr. Judith Joseph, author of High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy, about how those affected can move forward.
Dr. Joseph, a board-certified psychiatrist based in New York City, is experienced in addressing collective trauma from life-altering events like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. The author and researcher shared practical insights on healing from large-scale disasters like the recent wildfires.
Do your best to keep a routine
In times of uncertainty, it can be comforting to follow a routine. While it may be difficult, Dr. Joseph emphasized that it’s a powerful way to affirm, “There are certain things that are still within your control.” Keeping parts of your day consistent—like waking up, going to bed, and having meals at the same time every day—can provide a sense of stability.
Connect with your neighbors
Strengthening ties to your community in times of crisis is key to collective healing after disaster events. “What I’ve found in these types of disaster situations is that meeting regularly as a community helps because you realize that you’re not alone,” said Dr. Joseph.
Getting together with neighbors for frequent check-ins also serves a practical purpose. This creates a space for sharing vital information like when the power will be restored and updates on rebuilding efforts. Staying informed can help clear up uncertainties and ease the anxiety of the unknown.
“When you meet regularly, you have access to more up-to-date information and resources,” said Dr. Joseph. “The more you can establish a sense of certainty, the more it can support emotional and psychological well-being during recovery.”
Reassure the young ones
For parents, caregivers, and educators, it’s healthy to acknowledge the gravity of the situation with children. “I think a lot of parents want to shield their children from painful things,” said Dr. Joseph. “But in not being truthful, it creates a false sense of safety and children end up feeling unsafe.”
While it’s best to be honest, it’s important to be appropriately truthful and share only what’s necessary. “When you do tell children about what’s happening, you want to make sure that you’re meeting them where they are developmentally,” said Dr. Joseph.
Another way to help children cope is to validate their feelings, whether they are feeling scared, confused, or angry. “Reassure them that they didn’t do anything wrong, it’s not their fault, and that they are safe,” Dr. Joseph advised.
Don’t suffer alone
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed after such a traumatic event. “The idea of rebuilding can seem daunting, especially for those who had financial issues before or don’t have adequate insurance coverage,” said Dr. Joseph. “It could feel very hopeless.”
“This is an adjustment,” she added. “You want to acknowledge that this happened—that it was out of your control and wasn’t your fault—and you want to be mindful of seeking support and talking about it.”
For those who are struggling with their mental health during this difficult time, there are resources available. “National support groups like NAMI and the Crisis Text Line are great alternatives if you don’t have a current provider,” said Dr. Joseph.
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Call the NAMI HelpLine: 1-800-950-6264 or text “HelpLine” to 62640
Available Monday to Friday, 10 am to 10 pm ET
Visit NAMI’s website
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Speak to a support counselor available 24/7
Call or text 988 or chat online
Visit the 988 Lifeline website
Visit the California Department of Public Health’s website for a list of additional resources.
SEE ALSO:
The Black History Of Altadena And Pasadena
As Altadena Recovers, Community Is The Bright Spot
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