Smoke and haze can have you feeling down; CMHA talks mental health amid wildfires
Posted August 21, 2018 3:04 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – The haze spreading throughout the province because of wildfires burning around B.C. may have an impact on more than just your physical health.
According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, the grey skies and haze could have some feeling gloomy or sad.
“It’s quite oppressive to be looking out at this sky that is so unusual and I think it’s quite scary for people, actually,” explains Maya Russell, director of community engagement. “So I think there’s some fear around being surrounded by this smoke everywhere, and I think for people it’s also making climate change feel really real, and it’s making it visible, in a way, for us.”
She says self-care and good mental wellness are key to keep your spirits high. That means taking care of yourself, eating well, and if you are feeling down, Russell suggests avoiding anything that may trigger you.
“If you are finding you’re feeling anxious or worried about it, maybe don’t watch the news constantly with updates. Because that can be very alarming, the images of the fire. We don’t want people to put their head in the sand, but these are incredibly stressful events to watch. If you don’t need to watch it constantly, then that’s something you can do.”
According to Russell, those living in areas that have been “blacked out” by the wildfire smoke may find themselves in a tough situation. She adds those who are at risk of being placed under an evacuation alert or order are also facing stressful situations.
“These are some of the most stressful things that you can experience in your lifetime,” she tells NEWS 1130. “Having to flee your home, maybe leaving animals behind, risking losing everything you’ve built up on your property. These are incredibly stressful and traumatic events for people.”
She says anyone dealing with stress or anxiety can and should reach out for help. Russell says you don’t need to officially be “in crisis” to seek it out, and adds resources — like B.C.’s Crisis lines — are in place.
“Lots of people are surprised to find that they’re just really having a hard time getting through this,” she explains. “Those people are very skilled and you can call them and just have a conversation.”
The number to call is 310-6789 from anywhere in B.C.
Once things settle, Russell says a self-help skills building program will be available for those looking for help coping.
-With files from Sonia Aslam
