People vary in the way they respond to this crisis, but over time, most people will recover and rebuild their lives. During what can be a prolonged recovery process, we need to care for others and ourselves. Some of the common reactions to disasters include:
- fear, sadness or anger
- feeling overwhelmed, numb, detached or withdrawn
- difficulty focusing or concentrating
- tearfulness
- sleep problems
- constant questioning
Sharing stories, caring for each other, checking in on others are simple ways that as a community we can support and care for those affected by the fires. We may also choose to donate to one of the registered charities collecting funds for the fire fighters or those affected by the fires. Finding ways to help others can often trigger healing and recovery for ourselves.
Here are some resources which you might find helpful:
Coping with loss and change in a community after a natural disaster:
