Psychological First Aid After Wildfires: Caring for Southern California Communities

In the wake of the devastating Southern California wildfires, many residents are left with not only physical losses, but emotional wounds that linger long after the flames are extinguished. Psychological First Aid (PFA) is a compassionate, evidence-informed approach that offers immediate, supportive care to individuals affected by disasters.

What Is Psychological First Aid?

PFA is designed to reduce initial distress and foster short- and long-term adaptive functioning. Unlike traditional therapy, it’s focused on stabilizing and empowering individuals during the acute aftermath of a crisis.

The core principles of PFA include:

• Ensuring safety and comfort

• Connecting people to social support

• Enhancing self-efficacy

• Providing information on coping

Lifespan Impacts of Disaster

• Children: Often exhibit regression, nightmares, or clinginess. They benefit from routine, reassurance, and age-appropriate explanations.

• Adults: May experience guilt, anxiety, and hypervigilance. The loss of a home or livelihood adds financial and emotional stress.

• Older adults: Are especially vulnerable due to mobility issues or chronic illness, and may show confusion, isolation, or grief over lost memories and possessions.

The Neuropsychological Toll

Chronic stress from natural disasters activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, resulting in prolonged cortisol exposure, which can impair memory, attention, and executive function.

How Communities Can Respond

• Set up mobile mental health units and support groups

• Train first responders and volunteers in PFA principles

• Offer culturally and linguistically appropriate services

Resources:

• SAMHSA PFA Field Manual

• Red Cross Disaster Mental Health

• CA Department of Public Health