If you or your loved ones are experiencing mental health distress related to the wildfires in California, do not hesitate to ask for help. 24/7 support and resources are available through our Help Line at (800) 854-7771 and through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
LACDMH continues to support those impacted by the wildfires, and our staff have provided services at evacuation centers, recovery hubs, re-entry points, schools, and within the communities.
Staff are available to provide in-person mental health services (including counseling, medication assistance, crisis stabilization, and linkage) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, at Altadena Community Center at 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001.
Additional Resources:
- Coping with Stress from Natural Disasters (PDF)
- Mental Health and Stress After An Emergency (LACDMH / DPH)
- Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990
- CalHOPE Warmline at 833-317-4673
- Crisis Text Line by texting LA to 741741
- LA County Recovers
- Business to Business Space Share
Coping with a disaster can be difficult. You are not alone. Stress, anxiety, and depression-like symptoms are common reactions after a disaster for both children and adults. Getting help as soon as possible is the best way to protect your long-term mental health.
Services Available for Help:
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, please reach out for help. Services are available to assist you in coping with reactions or feelings during or after a disaster.
Mental Health Help Line:
Call (800) 854-7771 or text “LA” to 741741 for immediate help or to access local mental health services. This 24/7 multilingual LA County hotline provides disaster victims with screening, assessment, referrals, and crisis counseling over the phone.
En Español:
Para cualquier pregunta relacionada con el manejo del estrés y problemas de salud mental, comuníquese con nuestro departamento de salud mental al número (800) 854-7771.
Overview
Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event. Understand the signs and ways different people respond to trauma.
Overview
A child’s stress affects their behavior as well as their emotions and nervous system. Watch this video to learn strategies for offering support and acknowledging a child’s feelings.
Overview
In the wake of the tragic fires facing Los Angeles County communities, this video addresses how to talk with children and families about the wildfires. This video is useful for a range of professionals, including therapists, social workers, teachers, health care workers, and lawyers, as well as parents and family members.
Overview
Despite safe, stable, nurturing relationships being one of the most protective factors for children, only one-third of children in US schools believe there is a caring adult who can support them. Watch this video to learn more about how schools can support resilience and emotional wellbeing.
Additional Resources:
Coping with Re-Traumatization: Access information sheets in English and Spanish.
Mental Health and Stress After an Emergency: This one-page resource can help you identify common reactions and guide what you can do for yourself and your family.
Helping Kids Cope: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers resources for helping children handle a wildfire disaster.
Recursos en Español: Explore these resources in Spanish to help start a conversation about mental health with family and community members.