The Ripple Effects of the Los Angeles Fire: Displacement, Education, and Mental Health

When disaster strikes, the effects ripple far beyond the immediate damage. The recent Los Angeles fire has been no exception. While images of scorched landscapes and destroyed homes dominate the news, the more profound, often invisible impact on families, especially children, deserves our attention.

Those living in Ojai in 2017 remember the Thomas Fire and the devastating effects that left many of us feeling confused. The displacement that left many families without homes is a vivid memory that conjures feelings of shock and fear, while also reminding us of the benevolence we felt as a community working together. I can still recall not having access to our local school for at least a month due to poor air quality. The Palisades and Eaton fires have damaged or destroyed at least 10 schools. I have heard several stories of locals who have lost their homes, valuables, and items that can never be replaced. 

Displacement: More Than Losing a Home

For families displaced by the fire, losing a home is only the beginning. Evacuations disrupt routines, scatter communities, and uproot lives. Children, in particular, feel the brunt of this upheaval. The familiar comforts of their rooms, schools, and neighborhoods are replaced by the uncertainty of temporary shelters or extended stays with relatives.

Displacement often means children are unable to attend their regular schools. This disruption can be detrimental to their academic progress, sense of stability, and social connections. Missing school doesn’t just mean falling behind in math or reading—it means losing the structure and normalcy that school provides. 

For parents, displacement often means solving the immediate problems, such as finances, the complexity of insurance claims, buying new clothes, handling donations, asking for support, and many other problems. Attending to the emotional distress however of the family is often not on the top of the to-do list. Unfortunately, the feeling of shock and avoidance of emotional loss lingers for days, weeks and months. This is the time to attend to the internal chaos caused by displacement on the top of the list.

The Mental Health Toll: Anxiety and PTSD

Natural disasters have profound psychological effects. For children and adults alike, the trauma of fleeing a fire, losing possessions, and witnessing destruction can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms may include nightmares, difficulty concentrating, emotional outbursts, or withdrawal from social interactions.

Children are particularly vulnerable because they may lack the words to express their fears and anxieties. They might exhibit their distress through changes in behavior, such as increased clinginess, irritability, or regressive actions like bedwetting. Teenagers might become withdrawn, struggle with feelings of hopelessness, or display risk-taking behaviors.

Parents often struggle with their own anxieties while trying to provide a sense of calm for their children. The stress of not knowing what to do can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness. For children, seeing their caregivers under immense stress can amplify their own fears.

Crisis Resources for Mental Health Support

Addressing the mental health impacts of displacement and trauma requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some resources specifically designed to support children and families:

Mental Health Resources for Children and Families

1. National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN):

   • Provides resources tailored to help children cope with trauma and rebuild a sense of safety.

   • Visit nctsn.org for guides, toolkits, and local connections to trauma-focused care.

2. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Behavioral Health Services:

   • Offers specialized programs for children affected by trauma, anxiety, and PTSD.

   • Call (323) 660-2450 or visit their website for details.

3. Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH):

   • Offers crisis counseling and longer-term support for individuals and families.

   • Call the 24/7 Help Line at 1-800-854-7771 or visit dmh.lacounty.gov.

4. School-Based Counseling Services:

   • Many schools offer on-site counselors or can refer families to trusted providers. Check with your school’s administration.

Crisis Hotlines and Immediate Support

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained counselor available 24/7.

• Disaster Distress Helpline: Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 for support in dealing with disaster-related stress.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or dial 988 for immediate assistance.

Supporting Children During Displacement

Restoring a sense of safety and normalcy is key to helping children cope with displacement. Here are some actionable tips:

• Establish Routine: Even in temporary housing, create a daily schedule that includes time for meals, play, and learning. Consistency can provide comfort.

• Encourage Expression: Allow children to talk, draw, or write about their feelings. Validate their emotions and reassure them that it’s okay to feel scared or upset.

• Stay Connected: If possible, maintain connections with friends, relatives, and community groups. Familiar faces can help children feel grounded.

• Limit Media Exposure: Shield children from graphic images or distressing news coverage that could heighten their anxiety.

• Seek Professional Help: If your child is showing prolonged signs of distress, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or psychologist trained in trauma.

Moving Forward Together

Recovery from a disaster like the Los Angeles fire is a marathon, not a sprint. Rebuilding homes and lives takes time, and the emotional scars may linger long after the ash has settled. Acknowledging the mental health challenges and seeking help when needed is essential.

For families, creating a sense of routine—even in temporary housing—can help restore some stability. Open communication is key; encourage children to express their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to be scared or upset. Lean on community resources and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if needed.

Above all, remember that healing is a collective effort. By supporting one another, we can help our children, our families, and our communities rise from the ashes stronger than before.