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Fresno County DBH WarmLine

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Foster & Homeless Youth Education Services

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COVID-19 brought about many unexpected changes and challenges that families and students may not be prepared for. Here are information and resources to support you in these unprecedented times.

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Resources

The Creek Fire is the largest single fire in California history. In response, Fresno County has shown an outpouring of support for the families and businesses affected by the fire.

The Creek Fire Donations page will assist with the following:

1. Identifying verified Donation Collection Partners in specific categories to help match donor intent with the most appropriate organization(s).

2. Providing Donation Collection Partners an additional resource to use when help is requested and resources may not otherwise be available.

3. Serving as a One-Stop-Shop, connecting those in need with resources and information.

This grouping of Donation Resources are continually updated with changing information. The County has an understanding with these resources that they are complying with laws and collecting donations according to the purposes claimed in their collection efforts. MONETARY GIFT DONATIONS ARE PREFERRED AND THE MOST HELPFUL AT THIS TIME. Please contact Rosemarie Amaral at ramaral@fresnocountyca.gov if you have any questions or need additional assistance.
Please review the categorical resources below:

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Resources The Creek Fire is the largest single fire in California history. In response, Fresno County has shown an outpouring of support for the families and businesses affected by the fire. The Creek Fire Donations page will assist with the following: Identifying verified Donation Collection Partners in specific categories to help match donor intent with the most appropriate organization(s).

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American Red Cross Central California Region

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The American Red Cross Central California Region is a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides disaster relief and helps people during disasters.

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Copyright © 2020 Multi-Access Agency Program. All rights reserved. Web Design by Digital Attic.

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Adapted from Fresno County Library's Creek Fire Resources. This list will be updated, contact us for additions or changes at contact@fivebyfivenine.com or DM us on Twitter or Instagram
Click on "incidents" and select the Creek Fire from the list of active incident s.

Evacuation Notices
Text your zip code to 888-777

41 Road Alerts
Text " 41traffic" to 888-777

Emergency Evacuation Sites

Clovis North High School
2770 E International Ave, Fresno, CA 93730 (at Willow/International)
Evacuation center for people and small animals

The Oakhurst Community Center is not an evacuation point anymore. Follow Central Valley Red Cross for updates.

Other Evacuation Sites

Loma Vista Community Church
2901 N De Wolf Ave, Clovis, CA 93619
Also available for livestock or animals
Contact Pastor Joe (559) 917-0752

Mountain View Church
3600 N Fowler Ave, Fresno, CA 93727
Contact Mark Fowler (559) 515-5382

Clovis Christian Church
1701 Locan Ave, Clovis, CA 93619
Contact Cameron Unruh (559) 392-4839

Animal Evacuations

For help evacuating livestock, please contact the Central California Animal Disaster Team at 1- 888-402-2238 or https://ccadt.org/

Large Animals are being accepted at:

Small Animals are being accepted at:

Birds: McLaughlin Parrot Rescue is helping to evacuate birds.
Call 559-382-3458 for more information.

Dogs & Cats: Abby Pet Hospital in Fresno will take in dogs and cats displaced by the Creek Fire.
4508 E Ashlan Ave, Fresno, CA 93726

Miscellaneous Help

Free Laundry for Evacuees and First Responders
Frank Turner and his wife, owners of laundromat Sudz, is offering to pick up and deliver laundry.
Call them at (559) 210-4333

General Emergency Evacuation Information and Preparations Checklists

ReadyforWildfire
Prepare for Wildfire
Evacuation Information
Resources from FCPL

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Adapted from Fresno County Library's Creek Fire Resources. This list will be updated, contact us for additions or changes at contact@fivebyfivenine.com or DM us on Twitter or Instagram Click on "incidents" and select the Creek Fire from the list of active incident s.

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National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

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Natural disasters can be traumatic for children and youth. Experiencing a dangerous wildfire can be frightening even for adults, and the devastation to the familiar environment (i.e., home and community) can be long-lasting and distressing. Often an entire community is impacted, further undermining a child's sense of security and normalcy. Wildfires present a variety of unique issues and coping challenges, including the need to relocate when home and/or community have been destroyed, the role of the family in lessening or exacerbating the trauma, emotional reactions, and coping techniques.

Children look to the significant adults in their lives for guidance on how to manage their reactions after the immediate threat is over. Parents, teachers, and other caregivers can help children and youth cope in the aftermath of a wildfire by remaining calm and reassuring children that they will be all right. Immediate response efforts should emphasize teaching effective coping strategies, fostering supportive relationships, and helping children understand their reactions.

Issues and Challenges Associated With Wildfires

Unlike other natural disasters such as earthquakes, there is often some warning of an advancing wildfire. However, depending upon the wind and terrain, the direction and spread of a wildfire can change abruptly. The amount of warning can vary from one neighborhood to the next. While some people may have hours (or even days) to evacuate, others will have only a few minutes to gather their belongings and leave their homes. Even if evacuation is not ultimately necessary, preparing for the possibility can be frightening for children, particularly if they are seeing images of homes burning nearby on television.

Reactions immediately following a wildfire may include emotional and physical exhaustion. In some instances children may experience survivor guilt (e.g., that their home was left unharmed, while others were completely destroyed). In general it might be expected that greater symptomatology in children will be associated with more frightening experiences during the wildfire and with greater levels of damage to their community and homes. The sights, sounds, and smells of a wildfire often generate fear and anxiety. Consequently, similar sensations (e.g., the smell of smoke) may generate distress among children in the months that follow. Given the scale of most wildfires, individuals living outside the ravages of the fires may still feel exposed to the danger from drifting clouds of smoke, flames on the horizon, and television reports. Some children may also react to follow-up news coverage or even weather reports that talk about dry fire conditions after the fact. It is important to acknowledge that, although a wildfire will last for only a specific period of time, survivors can be involved with the aftermath of a wildfire for months or even years. In attempts to reconstruct their lives, families are often required to deal with multiple people and agencies (e.g., insurance adjustors, contractors, the Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Salvation Army).

Possible Reactions of Children and Youth to Wildfires

Most children will be able to cope over time with the help of parents and other caring adults. However, some children may be at risk of more extreme reactions. The severity of children's reactions will depend on their specific risk factors. These include exposure to the wildfire, personal injury or loss of a loved one, relocation from their home or community, level of parental support, the level of physical destruction, and pre-existing risks, such as a previous traumatic experience or mental illness. Symptoms may differ depending on age but can include:

Preschoolers-thumb sucking, bedwetting, clinging to parents, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, fear of the dark, regression in behavior, and withdrawal from friends and routines.

Elementary school children-irritability, aggressiveness, clinginess, nightmares, school avoidance, poor concentration, and withdrawal from activities and friends.

Adolescents-sleeping and eating disturbances, agitation, increase in conflicts, physical complaints, delinquent behavior, and poor concentration.

A small minority of children may be at risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms can include those listed above, exhibited over an extended period of time. Other symptoms may include re-experiencing the wildfire during play or dreams; anticipating or feeling that a wildfire is happening again; avoiding reminders of the wildfire; general numbness to emotional topics; and increased arousal symptoms, such as inability to concentrate and startle reactions. Although extremely rare, some adolescents may also be at increased risk of suicide if they suffer from serious mental health problems like PTSD or depression. Students who exhibit these symptoms should be referred for appropriate mental health evaluation and intervention.

Immediately Following a Wildfire: Information for Teachers and Parents

Remain calm and reassuring. Children take their cues from adults, especially young children. Acknowledge the loss or destruction, but emphasize the community's efforts to clean up and rebuild. To the extent it is possible to do so, assure children that family and friends will take care of them and that life will return to normal.

Acknowledge and normalize their feelings. Allow children to discuss their feelings and concerns, and address any questions they may have regarding the event. Listen and empathize. An empathetic listener is very important. Let them know that their reactions are normal and expected.

Encourage children to talk about wildfire-related events. Children need an opportunity to discuss their experiences in a safe, accepting environment. Provide activities that enable children to discuss their experiences. This may include a range of methods (both verbal and nonverbal) and incorporate varying projects (e.g., drawing, stories, audio and video recording). Seek the help of the school psychologist, counselor, or social worker if you need help with ideas or managing the conversation.

Promote positive coping and problem-solving skills. Activities should teach children how to apply problem-solving skills to wildfire-related stressors. Encourage children to develop realistic and positive methods of coping that increase their ability to manage their anxiety and to identify which strategies fit with each situation.

Emphasize children's resiliency. Focus on their competencies. Help children identify what they have done in the past that helped them cope when they were frightened or upset. Bring their attention to other communities that have experienced wildfires and recovered.

Strengthen children's friendship and peer support. Children with strong emotional support from others are better able to cope with adversity. Children's relationships with peers can provide suggestions for how to cope and can help decrease isolation. In many wildfire situations, friendships may be disrupted because of family relocations. In some cases, parents may be less available to provide support to their children because of their own distress and feelings of being overwhelmed. Activities such as asking children to work cooperatively in small groups can help children strengthen supportive relationships with their peers.

Take care of your own needs. Take time for yourself and try to deal with your own reactions to the situation as fully as possible. You will be better able to help your children if you are coping well. If you are anxious or upset, your children are more likely to feel the same way. Talk to other adults such as family, friends, faith leaders, or counselors. It is important not to dwell on your fears or anxiety by yourself. Sharing feelings with others often makes people feel more connected and secure. Take care of your physical health. Make time, however small, to do things you enjoy. Avoid using drugs or alcohol to feel better.

Immediately Following a Wildfire: Specific Information for Schools

Allow time for staff to discuss their feelings and share their experiences. A wildfire may result in the temporary closure of a school. Upon return to school, it is important to allow time for a group discussion (in a safe and caring context) for staff to discuss their feelings and share their experiences. It is essential that teachers and staff be given permission to take care of themselves in order to ensure that they will be able to help their students. Handouts regarding possible trauma reactions among children and other relevant information can be valuable resources for caring adults (e.g., some handouts are available at www.nasponline.org). School personnel (including your school crisis team members) should also have the opportunity to receive support from a trained mental health professional. Providing crisis intervention is emotionally draining, and caregivers will need an opportunity to process their crisis response. This could include teachers and other school staff if they have been serving as crisis caregivers for students.

Provide time for students to discuss the wildfire. Depending on the situation, teachers may be able to guide this discussion in class, or students can meet with the school psychologist or other mental health professional for a group crisis intervention. Classroom discussions help children to understand the wildfire. They also encourage students to develop effective means of coping, discover that their classmates share similar questions, and develop peer support networks. Teachers should not be expected to conduct such discussions if children are severely impacted or if they themselves are distressed.

Identify children and youth who are high risk and plan interventions. Risk factors are outlined in the above section on children's reactions. Interventions may include classroom discussions, individual counseling, small-group counseling, or family therapy. From classroom discussions, and by maintaining close contact with teachers and parents, the school crisis response team can help determine which students need counseling services. A mechanism also needs to be in place for self-referral and parent referral of students.

Secure additional mental health support. Although many caregivers are often willing to provide support during the immediate aftermath of a wildfire, long-term services may be lacking. School mental health professionals can help provide and coordinate mental health services, but it is important to connect with community resources as well in order to provide such long-term assistance. Ideally these relationships would be established in advance.

Helping Children Adjust to Relocation After a Wildfire

The frequent need to relocate after a wildfire creates unique coping challenges. It may contribute to the social, environmental, and psychological stress experienced by children and their families. Children will be most affected by the reactions of their parents and other family members, the duration of the relocation, their natural coping style and emotional reactivity, and their ability to stay connected with friends and other familiar people and activities. To the extent possible parents and other caregivers should:

Provide opportunities for children to see friends.

Bring personal items that the child values when staying in temporary housing.

Establish some daily routines so that the child is able to have a sense of what to expect (including returning to school as soon as possible).

Provide opportunities for children to share their ideas and listen carefully to their concerns or fears.

Be sensitive to the disruption that relocation may have and be responsive to the needs of the child.

Consider the developmental level and unique experiences of each child; it is important to remember that as children vary, so will their responses to the disruption of relocation.

In addition, school personnel should:

Try to determine the status of every child in the school. Make sure that each child absent from school is contacted by school personnel and a record is kept.

Determine the unique needs of every child whose home might have been destroyed or sustained damage following the wildfire. Help connect these children to supportive resources.

Find out the phone numbers and addresses of every student who had to relocate. In this way classmates may be able to write notes or make phone calls.

Help to provide accurate information and address inaccurate rumors or myths.

Provide opportunities for children to discuss the event and how they are coping in the aftermath. It takes time for children to understand and adjust following a wildfire.

Understand that it is perfectly normal for children to discuss the event over and over again.

Use the creative arts (e.g., drama, art, band, chorus, photography) to help children express their emotions.

Bring in agencies to the school that can help families deal with needs related to housing, finances, and insurance. Help children get any necessary medical and emotional assistance.

Increase staffing for before and after school care. If possible, extend the service for additional hours and even on weekends.

Utilize the information about the wildfire in related subject areas. Science, math, history, and language arts are especially relevant.

Use drama, art, music, and photography to help children express their emotions.

Develop an advisory committee of students to report back to school staff about what resources and changes in routines will help them cope in the aftermath.

Most of all, listen to all the students. If you listen closely, they will be able to tell you what they need.

Internet Resources

American Red Cross Wildfire Resources
http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/wildfire

Discovery Channel School Forest Fire Lesson Plans for Teachers
http://school.discoveryeducation.com/lessonplans/programs/forestfires

Federal Emergency Management Agency Wildfire Information
http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/wildfires.shtm
Adapted from:
Lazarus, P. J., & Jimerson, S. R., Brock, S. E. (2002). Natural disasters. In S. E. Brock, P. J. Lazarus, & S. R. Jimerson (Eds.), Best practices in school crisis prevention and intervention (pp. 435-450). Bethesda, MD: National Association of School Psychologists.

Lazarus, P. J., Jimerson, S. R., & Brock, S. E. (2003). Helping children after natural disasters: Information for parents and teachers. Bethesda, MD: National Association of School Psychologists.
Developed by Shane R. Jimerson, University of California, Santa Barbara; Stephen E. Brock, California State University, Sacramento; Kathy Cowan, National Association of School Psychologists
© 2017, National Association of School Psychologists, 4340 East West Highway, Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-657-0270, www.nasponline.org

Please cite this document as:

National Association of School Psychologists. (2017). Helping children after a wildfire: Tips for parents and teachers [handout]. Bethesda, MD: Author.

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Helping Children After a Wildfire: Tips for Parents and Teachers

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Natural disasters can be traumatic for children and youth. Experiencing a dangerous wildfire can be frightening even for adults, and the devastation to the familiar environment (i.e., home and community) can be long-lasting and distressing. Often an entire community is impacted, further undermining a child's sense of security and normalcy.

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This fact sheet helps parents and teachers recognize common reactions of children after experiencing a disaster or traumatic event. It highlights reactions by age group, offers tips for how to respond in a helpful way, and recommends when to seek support.

You May Also Be Interested In

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Tips for Talking With and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event: A Guide for Parents, Caregivers, and Teachers

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This fact sheet helps parents and teachers recognize common reactions of children after experiencing a disaster or traumatic event. It highlights reactions by age group, offers tips for how to respond in a helpful way, and recommends when to seek support. You May Also Be Interested In

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If you are experiencing a crisis, the resources below are available to help now:

Disaster Distress Helpline
1-800-985-5990 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255
Crisis Textline Chat online with Lifeline
Text TALK to 741741

Following a disaster, most people will ultimately do well and return to their previous level of functioning. However, many people will initially experience distressing thoughts, feelings, and physical symptoms and may engage in risky behaviors to help cope.

Traumatic events are not easy for anyone to comprehend or accept. Understandably, many children feel frightened and confused. Fortunately, most children, even those exposed to trauma, are quite resilient. Parents, teachers and caring adults can help by listening and responding in an honest, consistent and supportive manner.

There are steps that individuals can take for themselves and their families to reduce negative effects and improve their ability to function at home, work, and school. This page features resources that can assist in coping with disasters and other traumatic events.

Additional Resources
Reactions to Trauma; Recognizing Signs Coping/Managing Stress Coping/Recovery - Specific Circumstances Dealing with Grief Apps for managing stress:

Breath2Relax - Provides information on deep breathing exercises for calming and reducing anxiety and a tool for tracking your activity and progress. From the U.S. Department of Defense.

Mindfulness Coach - Provides training in mindfulness to help with stress and relaxation as well as a variety of voice-guided practice sessions. It also has the ability for users to track their own progress. From the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Virtual Hope Box - Provides guided relaxation techniques, tools for enhanced coping, games, and inspirational thoughts. From the U.S. Department of Defense.

PTSD Coach - Provides users with information about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including educational resources, information about professional care, a self-assessment tool, opportunities to find support, and tools to help manage the stresses of daily life with PTSD. From the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Additional Information Physician Review By:
Joshua C. Morganstein, M.D.
November 2019

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If you are experiencing a crisis, the resources below are available to help now: Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 Crisis Textline Chat online with Lifeline Text TALK to 741741 Following a disaster, most people will ultimately do well and return to their previous level of functioning.

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During a Wildfire:

While burning, the major hazards of wildfires to children are fire and smoke mostly because their lungs are still growing. Resulting health effects include:

Steps to Minimize Harmful Health Effects and Protect Children:

Stay indoors to minimize smoke exposure. Close all windows, doors, and any other openings. Put your air-conditioner on re-circulate if possible and avoid activities that may add to indoor air contamination, such as cooking with a gas stove. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters or other room air filtration systems that do not generate ozone are recommended.

When in a car, keep windows and vents closed. Turn the air-conditioning to re-circulate.

Do NOT rely on masks to filter contaminants, since masks do not work when not fitted correctly. Smaller sized masks may appear to fit a child's face, but no manufacturers recommend their use for children. If your children are in an area with bad air quality, take them to an indoor environment with cleaner air, rather than give them a mask. Humidifiers or breathing through a wet washcloth do not prevent breathing in smoke.

Outdoor activity should be minimized, and athletic and physical education stopped until air quality improves.

Evacuate the area if recommended by authorities. Be sure to bring immunization records, all medication (taken by each family member) and other disaster supplies with you.

Children with chronic respiratory problems, such as asthma, are at increased risk. Children at increased risk should remain in a clean-air environment and be kept indoors until air quality improves. They should be monitored closely for signs or symptoms of harmful health effects as listed above. If they are showing these symptoms and their usual medications cannot bring them under control, they should be taken to a nearby medical facility, despite the risks of traveling.

After a Wildfire:

The aftermath of a wildfire also poses dangers for children.

Take these steps to ensure your child's safety following a wildfire:

If you evacuated your home or area, before returning you should:

Wait to be directed by authorities that it is safe to return

Know the location of the nearest medical facility

Be sure water supply, electricity, and phone lines are restored

Block off unsafe or unclean areas to keep children out

Make sure your house is structurally sound

Arrange for removal of ash and debris by professionals or adults (children and adolescents should not take part in clean up)

Check with your water provider to make sure that your water is okay to drink. If the water provider indicates that the water may have bacterial contamination, you should heat it to a rolling boil for 1 minute to kill potentially harmful bacteria and other microscopic organisms before drinking. If the water provider indicates that the water may have chemical contamination, you should use bottled water or use a water filter known to remove the chemical(s) of concern. For information about filters, see NSF Drinking Water Filters, Testing and Treatment or EWG (Environmental Working Group) Water Filter Guide. Allow water to cool before giving it to children.

Keep in mind that loss of power to refrigerators and freezers can cause food to spoil. If the food has been warmed to room temperature for more than 2 hours, throw it out and do not eat it. For more information about food safety, click here.

Keep your child away from physical hazards. Potential physical hazards include:

Debris such as broken glass, wires, nails, wood, metal, plastics, and other objects

Ash pits, which are holes full of hot ashes created by burned trees and stumps

Unstable building structures, including flooring, stairways, railings, etc.

Stored items that may have moved into unstable positions

Slippery floors

Burned or damaged trees, since they may be unstable and fall

Roadways, bridges, and other outdoor structures that may be damaged and unstable

Animals that are deceased, stray, injured, or wild

Altered automobile traffic because of clean-up activities, since there may be heavier traffic in areas where children play or travel

Ash is a particularly important hazard, as it may be irritating to the skin, nose, and throat, and can be difficult to clean up. Do NOT allow your child to play in ash and clean it up as soon as possible. When cleaning, avoid spreading ash into the air. Wet it down before attempting to remove it. Do NOT use leaf blowers or vacuums. Even if you are careful, it is easy to stir up dust that may contain hazardous substances. Children and adolescents should not take part in the clean-up.

If your child has had contact with any potentially hazardous substance or has been playing in a fire-damaged area, wash their hands and any other exposed body part thoroughly, including flushing of the eyes. Remove any exposed clothing and wash separately as soon as possible.

Monitor your child closely, particularly if your child has a chronic respiratory condition like asthma. Watch for symptoms such as coughing; wheezing; chest tightness; burning eyes, nose, or mouth; dizziness or lightheadedness. Move your child indoors or to a cleaner environment and bathe them (follow instructions in bullet above) if they show these symptoms. If your child has asthma or other respiratory conditions, give them their appropriate medication. If the symptoms do not improve, seek medical care right away.

Psychological Effects of Wildfires:

Be alert to your child's emotional health and psychological well-being. Grief associated with loss, stress, or anxiety from the disaster may cause emotional distress.

Signs of emotional distress can be different depending on your child's age, and include:

Clinging behavior and fear of separation

Uncooperative behaviors (for example, argumentative)

Physical complaints (for example, stomach aches, headaches, generally feeling unwell)

Irritability

Eating or sleeping too much or too little

Returning to babyish behaviors

Risk-taking behaviors

Fatigue, both physical and emotional

Indifference

Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities or friends

Difficulty concentrating or focusing at home or on school work

Aggression or outbursts of anger

Uncontrollable crying

Decline in school performance

Continue your child's established routines as much as possible and provide a listening ear. Encourage your child to express feelings through a variety of ways, such as music, art, journaling, talking, or playing with toys or dolls. Avoid exposing your child to excessive or unnecessary TV or other media coverage of the wildfire. Answer your child's questions openly and honestly, as appropriate for your child's age. Be patient and remain calm, because children often take cues on how to act based on their parents and their environment. Your reactions communicate an unspoken message to your child and may add to a child's feeling of distress.

In some cases, the whole family may benefit from supportive counseling. It is important to remember that it is not a sign of mental illness to accept professional support during times of emotional distress.

Additional Resources:

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fire~ wildfires~ smoke~ california~ forest~ fires~ wildfire~ safety~ prevention~ smoke~ psychological effects~ counseling~ natural disaster~ ash~ ashes~ asthma~ air-conditioning~ burning~ trees~ pets~ coughing~ inhale~ enviroment~ outdoors

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While burning, the major hazards of wildfires to children are fire and smoke mostly because their lungs are still growing. Resulting health effects include: Stay indoors to minimize smoke exposure. Close all windows, doors, and any other openings. Put your air-conditioner on re-circulate if possible and avoid activities that may add to indoor air contamination, such as cooking with a gas stove.

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School Mental Health / Crisis Counseling - Activities for Students

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Play is a healthy way for children to express themselves and bring some normalcy to a crisis situation. This handout provides parents, guardians and loved ones ideas for activities they can use to engage with their child(ren).

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School Mental Health / Crisis Counseling - Resources for Parents/Caregivers

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General Guidelines for Addressing Mental Health Needs in the School Environment. PFA is an evidence-informed approach for assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families in the immediate aftermath of a critical incident, disaster, or terrorism. PFA is designed to reduce the initial distress caused by traumatic events and to foster short and long-term adaptive functioning.

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All 4 Youth is a partnership program between The Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health and Fresno County Superintendent of Schools for children and youth ages 0-22 years old experiencing difficulties that affect them at school and at home.

All 4 Youth is designed to enable youth and their families to access behavioral health services at school, in the community or in the home. The goal of All 4 Youth is to remove barriers and increase access to a positive healthy environment in which to live and learn.

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All 4 Youth is a partnership program between The Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health and Fresno County Superintendent of Schools for children and youth ages 0-22 years old experiencing difficulties that affect them at school and at home.

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Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

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Emotional distress can happen before and after a disaster. Coping strategies include preparation, self-care, and identifying support systems.

People can experience a wide range of emotions before and after a disaster or traumatic event. There's no right or wrong way to feel. However, it's important to find healthy ways to cope when these events happen.

Take Care of Yourself and Your Loved Ones

Eating a healthy diet, avoiding the use of drugs and alcohol, and getting regular exercise can reduce stress and anxiety. Activities as simple as taking a walk, stretching, and deep breathing can help relieve stress.

Take care of yourself. Try to eat healthy, avoid using alcohol and drugs, and get some exercise when you can-even a walk around the block can make a difference.

Reach out to friends and family. Talk to someone you trust about how you are doing.

If you have children, talk to them. They may feel scared, angry, sad, worried, and confused. Let them know it's okay to talk about what's on their mind. Role model healthy coping.

Limit your consumption of news. We live in a society where the news is available to us 24 hours a day via television, radio, and the Internet. The constant replay of news stories about a disaster or traumatic event can increase stress and anxiety and make some people relive the event over and over. Reduce the amount of news you watch and/or listen to.

Get enough "good" sleep. Some people have difficulty falling asleep after a disaster, or wake up throughout the night. If you have trouble sleeping, only go to bed when you are ready to sleep, avoid using cell phones or laptops in bed, and avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol at least one hour before going to bed. If you wake up and can't fall back to sleep, try writing what's on your mind in a journal or on a sheet of paper.

Establish and maintain a routine. Try to eat meals at regular times and put yourself on a sleep schedule to ensure an adequate amount of rest. Include a positive or fun activity in your schedule that you can look forward to each day or week.

Avoid making major life decisions. Doing things like switching jobs or careers can already be stressful and are even harder to adjust to directly after a disaster.

Understand there will be changes. Disasters can destroy homes, schools, and places of business and worship and can disrupt the lives of people living in affected areas for a long time. Sometimes, people lose loved ones or experience injuries, both physical and mental, that may last a lifetime. Some people may also experience a temporary or permanent loss of employment. For children, attending a new or temporary school may result in being separated from peers, or after-school activities may be disrupted.

Take care of pets or get outside into nature when it's safe. Nature and animals can help us to feel better when we are down. See if you can volunteer at a local animal shelter-they may need help after a disaster. Once it's safe to return to public parks or natural areas, find a quiet spot to sit in or go for a hike.

Know when to ask for help. Signs of stress can be normal, short-term reactions to any of life's unexpected events-not only after surviving a disaster, but also after a death in the family, the loss of a job, or a breakup. It's important to pay attention to what's going on with you or with someone you care about, because what may seem like "everyday stress" can actually be: depression (including the thoughts of suicide), anxiety, or alcohol/drug abuse.

Those at Risk
Disasters have the potential to cause emotional distress.
Some are more at risk than others:

Survivors living or working in the impacted areas (youth & adults)

Loved ones of victims

First Responders, Rescue & Recovery Workers

Stress, anxiety, and depression are common reactions after a disaster.
Warning signs of distress may include:

Sleeping too much or too little

Stomachaches or headaches

Anger, feeling edgy or lashing out at others

Overwhelming sadness

Worrying a lot of the time; feeling guilty but not sure why

Feeling like you have to keep busy

Lack of energy or always feeling tired

Drinking alcohol, smoking or using tobacco more than usual; using illegal drugs

Eating too much or too little

Not connecting with others

Ask for Help

Warning signs of stress are normal, short-term reactions to life's unexpected challenges. However, it is important to recognize when you or others experience emotional distress that is persistent and becomes difficult to manage.

Find a local support group. In a group setting led by trained and experienced professionals, people who have shared a similar experience can exchange thoughts, feelings, and ideas on how to get through difficult times. Support groups provide a safe place for people to find comfort in knowing they are not alone.

Reach out to family and friends. Talking to someone you trust about your feelings without fear of judgment may offer some relief. Family and friends can be a great resource for support. Your family and friends may have also survived the disaster and understand the emotions you are experiencing. It's also a good idea to speak with friends who were not involved, because they can be objective and provide additional support.

Speak with a financial adviser. The loss of a home or job or being unable to work after a disaster can be an overwhelming financial burden people feel they have to struggle with alone. Financial advisers don't immediately come to mind as a resource after a disaster, but they should be among the first people you call when developing a strategy to rebuild your life. Seeking help from a financial adviser can ease the stress and point you in the direction of other helpful resources or programs tailored to your situation.

If you or your loved ones continue to have feelings of anxiety, fear, and anger for two weeks or more, with no improvement, it's best to seek professional help. Call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline to locate services and speak with trained crisis counselors who are ready to assist you.

References and Relevant Resources

General Disaster Response and Recovery Information

Incidents of Mass Violence: Specific Information

Resources for Disaster Responders

Traumatic Stress and Retraumatization Resources

National Child Traumatic Stress Network Resources (NCTSN)

The NCTSN has multiple resources to support children, youth, families and community response efforts:

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Coping Tips for Traumatic Events and Disasters

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Emotional distress can happen before and after a disaster. Coping strategies include preparation, self-care, and identifying support systems. People can experience a wide range of emotions before and after a disaster or traumatic event. There's no right or wrong way to feel. However, it's important to find healthy ways to cope when these events happen.

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Cite this

American Psychological Association. (2019, October 28). Recovering from wildfires. http://www.apa.org/topics/disasters-response/wildfires

Wildfires can be particularly stressful because the factors that influence their strength and direction can change at any moment. Communities that seem clear of danger can suddenly need to evacuate. Despite well-orchestrated and persistent fire fighting by emergency services personnel, sometimes destruction of life and property is unpreventable.

It is common for people who have lived through these circumstances to experience strong emotions. Understanding normal responses to these abnormal events can aid you in coping effectively with your feelings, thoughts and behaviors as you recover from the fire.

What happens when people experience a disaster or traumatic event?

Shock and denial are typical responses to large-scale natural disasters, especially shortly after the event. Both shock and denial are normal protective reactions.

Once the initial shock subsides, reactions vary from one person to another. These are common responses to a traumatic event:

Feelings become intense and sometimes are unpredictable. You may become more irritable than usual, and your mood may change back and forth dramatically. You might be especially anxious or nervous, or even become depressed.

Thoughts and behavior patterns are affected. You might have repeated and vivid memories of evacuating or seeing the fire approach. These flashbacks may occur for no apparent reason and may lead to physical reactions such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. You may find it difficult to concentrate or make decisions, or become more easily confused. Sleep and eating patterns also may be disrupted.

Recurring emotional reactions are common. Reminders or "triggers" such as smoke, ash, sirens, or fire trucks can create anxiety.

Interpersonal relationships can become strained, particularly if you are living in temporary housing. You may experience arguments with family or friends. On the other hand, you might become withdrawn and isolated and avoid your usual activities.

Physical symptoms may accompany the extreme stress. For example, headaches, nausea, and chest pain may result and may require medical attention. Pre-existing medical conditions may worsen due to the stress.

It is important to realize that there is no one "standard" pattern of reaction to the extreme stress of traumatic experiences.

How can I help myself and my family?

There are a number of steps you can take to help restore emotional well being and a sense of control in your life, including:

Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced.

Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen to your concerns. If those closest to you also have experienced or witnessed the wildfire, realize that they may not be able to be as supportive as usual.

Turn it off and take a break. You may want to keep informed, but try to limit the amount of news you take in whether it's from the internet, television, newspapers, or magazines. While getting the news informs you, being over exposed to the news can actually increase your stress.

Find out about local support groups that are available for those who have suffered as a result of the wildfires. Particularly those that are led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals such as psychologists. These groups can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.

Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals, get some exercise and try to rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs because they can suppress your feelings rather than help you to manage or lessen your distress. They can also intensify your emotional or physical pain.

Establish or reestablish routines such as eating meals at regular times and following an exercise program. Schedule some breaks to distract yourself from thinking about the fire and focus instead on something you enjoy. Try to do something that will lift your spirits.

Avoid major life decisions such as switching jobs, making large purchases, or making sudden changes in your relationships. These activities have their own stresses that can exacerbate your current circumstances.

How can I take care of children's special needs?

The intense anxiety and fear that often follow a disaster can be particularly troubling for children, especially if they have witnessed the fire, lost their home, etc. Some may regress and demonstrate younger behaviors. Children may be more prone to nightmares and fear of sleeping alone. Performance in school may suffer. Other changes in behavior patterns may include throwing tantrums more frequently, or withdrawing and becoming more solitary.

There are several things parents and others who care for children can do to help alleviate the emotional consequences of the fire, including the following:

Spend more time with children and let them be more dependent on you during the months following the fire. Affection can be comforting to children who have experienced trauma.

Provide play experiences to help relieve tension. Younger children in particular may find it easier to share their ideas and feelings about the event through non-verbal activities such as drawing.

Encourage older children to speak with you, and with one another, about their thoughts and feelings. This helps reduce their confusion and anxiety about the disaster. Respond to questions in terms they can comprehend. Reassure them repeatedly that you care about them and that you understand their fears and concerns.

Keep regular schedules for activities such as eating, playing, and going to bed. Help restore a sense of security and normalcy.

Reduce the number of times children see the trauma on the news. Repeatedly watching broadcasts of the disaster can retraumatize children.

When should I seek additional help?

Some people are able to cope effectively with the emotional and physical demands brought about by natural disasters such as wildfires by using their own support systems. Serious problems, however, can persist and continue to interfere with daily living. For example, some may feel overwhelming nervousness or lingering sadness that adversely affects job performance and interpersonal relationships.

Individuals with prolonged reactions that disrupt their daily functioning should consult with a trained and experienced mental health professional. Psychologists and other appropriate mental health providers help educate people about normal responses to extreme stress. These professionals work with individuals affected by trauma to help them find constructive ways of dealing with the emotional impact.

With children, continual and aggressive emotional outbursts, serious problems at school, preoccupation with the fire, continued and extreme withdrawal, and other signs of intense anxiety or emotional difficulties all point to the need for professional assistance. A qualified mental health professional such as a psychologist can help such children and their parents understand and deal with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Thanks to psychologists Raymond F. Hanbury, PhD, ABPP, Jana Martin, PhD, and APA Div. 42.

The full text of articles from APA Help Center may be reproduced and distributed for noncommercial purposes with credit given to the American Psychological Association. Any electronic reproductions must link to the original article on the APA Help Center. Any exceptions to this, including excerpting, paraphrasing or reproduction in a commercial work, must be presented in writing to the APA. Images from the APA Help Center may not be reproduced.

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Cite this American Psychological Association. (2019, October 28). Recovering from wildfires. http://www.apa.org/topics/disasters-response/wildfires Wildfires can be particularly stressful because the factors that influence their strength and direction can change at any moment. Communities that seem clear of danger can suddenly need to evacuate.

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This fact sheet offers self-help tips for coping after a traumatic event. It discusses the long-term impact of trauma, including personal uncertainties, family relationship changes, work disruptions, and financial concerns.

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We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

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The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

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Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

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Helpful self-care tips to accommodate parents' busy schedules. Whether parents have only five minutes or an hour, self-care is critical to helping parents give their best selves as they take care of the ones they love.

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Helpful self-care tips to accommodate parents' busy schedules. Whether parents have only five minutes or an hour, self-care is critical to helping parents give their best selves as they take care of the ones they love.

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Support from Each Mind Matters_ California Wildfires

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So often when we think about grief we associate it with losses resulting from death, yet the grief we feel from other losses in life can also be very intense and emotion provoking. At times we may judge, or question our grief related to loss of possessions, and may even be told by others "at least you are safe". Statements such as these can create a disenfranchised grief experience and promote feelings of shame. While we can certainly feel relief over being physically safe, and at the same time we can also grieve the losses of this tragedy.

If you are reading this and have losses related to the Creek Fire, first and foremost, we are so sorry. We know that in addition to the tangible losses you are faced with, there also may be a loss to your sense of safety. We have certainly been faced with this in our current pandemic, and the experience with the camp fires may compound those feelings. We invite you to read through this material of resources and support and take from it what feels right to you.

Please feel free to reach out to the Center for Grief & Healing as we are here as a resource of support (559) 248-8579.
Recovering emotionally from disaster
Understanding the emotions and normal responses that follow a disaster or other traumatic event can help you cope with your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
Disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, transportation accidents, or wildfires are typically unexpected, sudden, and overwhelming. For many people, there are no outwardly visible signs of physical injury, but there can be nonetheless an emotional toll. It is common for people who have experienced disaster to have strong emotional reactions. Understanding responses to distressing events can help you cope effectively with your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and help you along the path to recovery.
What are common reactions and responses to disaster?
Following a disaster it is important to validate our normal reactions to an abnormal situation. People frequently feel stunned, disoriented or unable to integrate distressing information. Once these initial reactions subside, people can experience a variety of thoughts and behaviors. Common responses can be:

● Feelings such as overwhelming anxiety, constant worrying, trouble sleeping, and other depression-like symptoms are common responses before, during, and after wildfires.
● Having thoughts, memories, or nightmares related to the wildfire that you can't seem to get out of your head
● Worrying a lot of the time; feeling guilty but not sure why
● Excessive absences from work or school
● Intense or unpredictable feelings. You may feel nervous, overwhelmed, or grief-stricken. You may also feel more irritable or moody than usual.
● Changes to thoughts and behavior patterns. You might have repeated and vivid memories of the event. These memories may occur for no apparent reason and may lead to physical reactions such as rapid heartbeat or sweating. It may be difficult to concentrate or make decisions. Sleep and eating patterns also can be disrupted-some people may overeat and oversleep, while others experience a loss of sleep and loss of appetite.
● Sensitivity to environmental factors. Sirens, loud noises, burning smells, or other environmental sensations may stimulate memories of the disaster creating heightened anxiety. These "triggers" may be accompanied by fears that the stressful event will be repeated.
● Strained interpersonal relationships. Increased conflict, such as more frequent disagreements with family members and coworkers, can occur. You might also become withdrawn, isolated, or disengaged from your usual social activities.
● Stress-related physical symptoms. Headaches, nausea, and chest pain may occur and could require medical attention. Pre-existing medical conditions could be affected by disaster-related stress.
Who is at Risk for Emotional Distress?
People living in areas where wildfires often occur may be vulnerable to emotional distress. People who have struggled to recover from experiences with past wildfires also may experience distress. Other people at risk for emotional distress due to wildfires include:

Children and teens. After a wildfire, young people may worry that another one will happen again, especially if they witnessed the fire and the loss of their home. Some children may become withdrawn, while others may become agitated and irritable and display outbursts of anger.

Older adults. Older adults are more likely to need social support to reduce the effects of stress and move forward on the path of recovery. They also may have limited physical mobility and lack independence.

First responders and recovery workers. These individuals may experience prolonged separation from loved ones (depending on the severity of the wildfire) and show signs of mental fatigue.

It is common for people to experience stress in the immediate aftermath, but within a few months most people are able to resume functioning as they did prior to the disaster. It is important to remember that resilience and recovery are the norm, not prolonged distress. There are a number of steps you can take to build emotional well-being and gain a sense of control following a disaster, including the following:

Give yourself time to adjust. Anticipate that this will be a difficult time in your life. Allow yourself to mourn the losses you have experienced and try to be patient with changes in your emotional state.

Ask for support from people who care about you and who will listen and empathize with your situation. Social support is a key component to disaster recovery. Family and friends can be an important resource. You can find support and common ground from those who've also survived the disaster. You may also want to reach out to others not involved who may be able to provide greater support and objectivity.

Communicate your experience. Express what you are feeling in whatever ways feel comfortable to you-such as talking with family or close friends, keeping a diary, or engaging in a creative activity (e.g., drawing, molding clay, etc.).

Find a local support group led by appropriately trained and experienced professionals. Support groups are frequently available for survivors. Group discussion can help you realize that you are not alone in your reactions and emotions. Support group meetings can be especially helpful for people with limited personal support systems.

Engage in healthy behaviors to enhance your ability to cope with excessive stress. Eat well-balanced meals and get plenty of rest. If you experience ongoing difficulties with sleep, you may be able to find some relief through relaxation techniques. Avoid alcohol and drugs because they can be a numbing diversion that could detract from as well as delay active coping and moving forward from the disaster.

Establish or reestablish routines. This can include eating meals at regular times, sleeping and waking on a regular cycle, or following an exercise program. Build in some positive routines to have something to look forward to during these distressing times, like pursuing a hobby, walking through an attractive park or neighborhood, or reading a good book.

Avoid making major life decisions. Switching careers or jobs and other important decisions tend to be highly stressful in their own right and even harder to take on when you're recovering from a disaster.

Returning Home
Returning to a home, business, school, or place of worship impacted by a wildfire may cause additional distress, especially if there is structural damage. A temporary or permanent loss of employment may also occur. It is a normal reaction to this tragedy to experience anxiety, sadness, anger, frustration, confusion and more. Your feelings are normal. We encourage you to find a safe place to express your feelings.
Trigger Events
Remember, too, that the anniversary of a disaster or tragic event can renew feelings of fear, anxiety, and sadness in disaster survivors. Certain sounds such as sirens can also trigger emotional distress. These and other environmental sensations can take people right back to the event, or cause them to fear that it's about to happen again. These " trigger events" can happen at any time. Your feelings are normal. We encourage you to find a safe place to express your feelings.
​
When should I seek professional help?

If you notice persistent feelings of distress or hopelessness and you feel like you are barely able to get through your daily responsibilities and activities, consult with a licensed mental health professional such as a psychologist. Please feel free to reach out to the Center for Grief & Healing as we are here as a resource of support (559) 248-8579.
Where Can I Get Help?
​If you or someone you know shows any of these symptoms for two weeks or more, whether you know they are in relation to a wildfire or if it is unclear how they started ... You are not alone! Call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 for support and counseling. The Disaster Distress Helpline is a national hotline that provides 24/7, year-round crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster.
This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories. Spanish-speakers should text Hablanos to 66746. English speakers in U.S. territories text TalkWithUs to 1-212-461-4635. Calls and texts are answered by trained, caring counselors from crisis call centers located throughout the United States.

Parts of this resource handout have been taken from:
https://www.apa.org/topics/recovering-disasters
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/disaster-types/wildfires

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So often when we think about grief we associate it with losses resulting from death, yet the grief we feel from other losses in life can also be very intense and emotion provoking. At times we may judge, or question our grief related to loss of possessions, and may even be told by others "at least you are safe".

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Please visit the "Creek Fire Support List" to access the most up-to-date resources for Housing, Supplies & Services, Medical & Mental Wellness, Donations & Volunteering, Animal Shelters, and Dual Enrollment Support.

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Creek Fire Resources - Mountain Strong - Sierra Unified School District

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Please visit the "Creek Fire Support List" to access the most up-to-date resources for Housing, Supplies & Services, Medical & Mental Wellness, Donations & Volunteering, Animal Shelters, and Dual Enrollment Support.

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"Since COVID-19 started, we've lived in various states of stress, depression, exhaustion, sleep problems, anger, and growing cynicism," Dr. Chatigny says. "We're tired of seeing the news. We're tired of seeing the numbers, the forecasts, the predictions. We're worn out, honestly. And in some people already prone to anxiety or clinical depression, the toll can be even worse."

The recent civil unrest rocking the country has only worsened our mindset, stoking a "tinder box of psychic stress," Dr. Chatigny adds. "It used to be that when we found ourselves stressed, we could count on family life at home to comfort us. But sheltering in place has robbed us of that. For now, we can't do the things that typically bring us joy and restore us."

For example, parents relied on after-school activities as a healthy outlet for their children. But the pandemic has closed schools, ending extracurricular activities, playdates and even trips to the playground. Parents can only do so much at home with children who, like their parents, are going stir-crazy. - 1a*

SAMHSA Hotlines SAMHSA's Disaster Distress HelplineToll-Free: 1-800-985-5990 (English and español)

SMS: Text TalkWithUs to 66746 SMS (español): "Hablanos" al 66746 TTY: 1-800-846-8517
Website in English: https:// www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov
Website in Spanish: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/ disaster-distress-helpline/espanol
Behavioral Health

Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1 800 273-8255

Fresno County Behavioral Health Access Line 1 800 654-3937

Public Health View & Download the Phases of Disaster pdf
Creek Fire Support - A Guide for our Community pdf

Tips Include:

Disaster Recovery: Conserve energy, recognize fatigue as a stress response. Take time away from the scene by alternating duties. Use stress management tools. Focus on reintegration with friends and family.

Available resources online from SAMHSA and Red Cross

Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health Offers Resources To Those Struggling with Mental Health In Times of Crisis.

The Creek Fire, coupled with COVID-19 has left many Fresno County residents dealing with "disaster fatigue." Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health urges anyone who may be struggling to reach out for help.

Disaster fatigue is classified as an onslaught of "bad news" from global things such as COVID and some of its impacts (job loss, distancing from friends and family, added stress, etc.) to the regional wildfires or hearing about national disasters like hurricanes throughout the country.

Disaster Distress Helpline - a 24/7, 365-day-a-year, national hotline dedicated to providing immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States and its territories.

* English: 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746
* Spanish: 1-800-985-5990 and press "2" or text Hablanos to 66746

What You Should Know When you hear, read, or watch news about a disaster you may feel anxious and show signs of stress-even when the disaster affects people far from where you live. These signs of stress are normal, and may be more likely or pronounced in people with loved ones in parts of the world affected by the disaster. In the wake of a disaster monitor your own physical and mental health. Know the signs of stress in yourself and your loved ones. Know how to relieve stress, and know when to get help.

Know the Signs of Stress

What follows are behavioral, physical, emotional, and cognitive responses that are all common signs of anxiety and stress. You may notice some of them after you learn about a disaster.

YOUR BEHAVIOR:

An increase or decrease in your energy and
activity levels

An increase in your alcohol, tobacco use, or
use of illegal drugs

An increase in irritability, with outbursts o
anger and frequent arguing

Having trouble relaxing or sleeping

Crying frequently

Worrying excessively

Wanting to be alone most of the time

Blaming other people for everything

Having difficulty communicating or listening

Having difficulty giving or accepting help

Inability to feel pleasure or have fun

Having stomachaches or diarrhea

Having headaches and other pains

Losing your appetite or eating too much

Sweating or having chills

Getting tremors or muscle twitches

Being easily startled

YOUR EMOTIONS:

Being anxious or fearful

Feeling depressed

Feeling guilty

Feeling angry

Feeling heroic, euphoric, or invulnerable

Not caring about anything
ƒ Feeling overwhelmed by sadness

YOUR THINKING:

Having trouble remembering things

Feeling confused

Having trouble thinking clearly and
concentrating

Having difficulty making decisions

Know When To Get Help

You may experience serious distress when you hear
about a disaster, even if you are
at little or no risk of the disaster itself. If you or someone
you know shows signs of stress (see list above) for
several days or weeks, get help by accessing one of
the resources at the end of this tip sheet.

Contact the Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline right away if you or someone you know threatens to hurt or kill
him- or herself or someone else, or talks or writes
about death, dying, or suicide.

Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1 800 273-8255

Know How To Relieve Stress

You can manage and alleviate your stress by
taking time to take care of yourself.

KEEP THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE:

Set limits on how much time you spend reading or watching news about disasters. You will want to stay up to date on news of the disaster particularly if you have loved ones in places where the disaster has taken place. But make sure to take time away from the news to focus on things in your life that are going well and that you can control.

GET THE FACTS:

Find people and resources you can depend on for accurate information. Learn from them about the disaster and how you can protect yourself, if you are at risk. You may turn a state or local health department, U.S. government agencies, or an international organization.

KEEP YOURSELF HEALTHY:

Eat healthy foods, and drink water.

Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine and
alcohol.

Do not use tobacco or illegal drugs.

Get enough sleep and rest.

Get physical exercise.

USE PRACTICAL WAYS TO RELAX:

Relax your body often by doing things that
work for you-take deep breaths, stretch,
meditate, wash your face and hands, or
engage in pleasurable hobbies.

Pace yourself between stressful activities,
and do a fun thing after a hard task.

Use time off to relax-eat a good meal, read,
listen to music, take a bath, or talk to family.

Talk about your feelings to loved ones and
friends often.

PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY, FEELINGS, AND SPIRIT:

Recognize and heed early warning signs of
stress.

Recognize how your own past experiences
affect your way of thinking and feeling about
this event, and think of how you handled your
thoughts, emotions, and behavior around
past events.

Know that feeling stressed, depressed, guilty,
or angry is common after an event like an
infectious disease outbreak, even when it
does not directly threaten you.

Connect with others who may be experiencing
stress about the outbreak. Talk about your
feelings about the outbreak, share reliable
health information, and enjoy conversation
unrelated to the outbreak, to remind yourself
of the many important and positive things in
your lives.

Take time to renew your spirit through
meditation, prayer, or helping others in need. - 1b*

SAMHSA Hotlines SAMHSA's Disaster Distress Helpline
Toll-Free: 1-800-985-5990 (English and español)
SMS: Text TalkWithUs to 66746 SMS (español): "Hablanos" al 66746 TTY: 1-800-846-8517
Website in English: https:// www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov
Website in Spanish: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/ disaster-distress-helpline/espanol

Fresno County Behavioral Health Access Line
1 800 654-3937

Central Valley Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1 800 273-8255

Reference:

1a* - https://www.leehealth.org/health-and-wellness/healthy-news-blog/coronavirus-covid-19/sick-and-tired-of-being-sick-and-tired-energize-yourself-against-disaster-fatigue

1b* - file:///Users/dbhvideo/Downloads/Coping%20with%20Stress%20During%20Infectious%20Disease%20Outbreaks.pdf

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"Since COVID-19 started, we've lived in various states of stress, depression, exhaustion, sleep problems, anger, and growing cynicism," Dr. Chatigny says. "We're tired of seeing the news. We're tired of seeing the numbers, the forecasts, the predictions. We're worn out, honestly. And in some people already prone to anxiety or clinical depression, the toll can be even worse."

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Creek Fire Information Fire Recovery Resources COVID-19 Information

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Please visit the "Creek Fire Support List" to access the most up-to-date resources for Housing, Supplies & Services, Medical & Mental Wellness, Donations & Volunteering, Animal Shelters, and Dual Enrollment Support.

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Creek Fire Resources - Mountain Strong - Sierra Unified School District

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Please visit the "Creek Fire Support List" to access the most up-to-date resources for Housing, Supplies & Services, Medical & Mental Wellness, Donations & Volunteering, Animal Shelters, and Dual Enrollment Support.