Natural disasters are traumatic events, and the wildfires that started in the Texas Panhandle on February 27 are no exception.
Tiffany Dowell Rushmett, a specialist with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in the Bureau of Agricultural Economics, likened the aftermath of wildfire-affected areas to a war zone. Dowell Rushmet lives in the Texas Panhandle and had to move his cattle and prepare for evacuation when fast-moving flames ravaged his home and ranch operation.
Dede Jones, a risk management specialist with AgriLife Extension who works with producers in the Panhandle, said many ranchers in the region are returning to burnt areas with dead livestock and, in some cases, their own victims injured in the fires. He said he had no choice but to euthanize cows and calves. . Families were left homeless, and experts say the effects of this disaster will affect Panhandle communities for years to come. It is important to understand that short-term and long-term mental health issues can occur after a traumatic event.
“We or someone around us can benefit from professional help,” said Michela Smith, AgriLife Extension health program specialist in the Lubbock-based agency's Disaster Assessment and Recovery Division. “You need to know what signs and symptoms to look for to determine if this is the case.” . She said continued support for survivors of traumatic events is important.
“In the short term, disasters can cause restlessness, shock, fear, disbelief, anger and sadness. These are all normal reactions to unusual circumstances,” Smith said. “In the long term, these symptoms can worsen and affect our ability to work, maintain relationships, and live a fulfilling life. If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, indicates that you may need to seek out a professional to help you recover from the traumatic event.”
reach out and take care of
Disaster Assessment and Recovery (DAR) programs recognize that in addition to the physical recovery of homes, agricultural infrastructure, businesses, and livestock after natural disasters, there is a need to support people experiencing psychological distress. I am.
Dr. Monty Dozier, director of the program, emphasized the importance of training to support the mental health of community members after a disaster.
“DAR personnel encounter people who experience psychological distress after a disaster and are at risk of developing more serious mental health conditions,” he said. “DAR personnel also come into contact with these individuals during the long recovery process.
“People affected by this wildfire are focused on their families, animals and activities,” Dozier said. “We want them to understand that we are here to help them deal with stress, anxiety, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. They need to know that they are not alone. Just understanding that there is no, and that we are here to support them as they get through this crisis.”
AgriLife Extension's Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based program that began in Australia and is now taught around the world. Through this program, agents are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and follow an action plan to provide first aid-level care to people in distress or crisis. Smith said some of these agents serve as non-judgmental listeners and sources of hope. In some cases, we may recommend that you seek professional help.
She said this valuable program is also available to the community.
An important aspect of providing ongoing support after a traumatic event is to help individuals regain a sense of control over their lives and encourage healthy coping strategies, Smith said. MHFA also teaches participants how to assess when their situation is not improving and when they could benefit from professional care.
“For example, we expect people to feel less like themselves for several weeks after a disaster, but if they continue to feel sad, hopeless, or numb a month later, professional help may be helpful.” she says.
Seeking certified agents and training
Approximately 50 AgriLife Extension County agents and program specialists are certified mental health first aid instructors and can train those who want to serve their communities.
For more information on training, please contact your local DAR or AgriLife Extension family community health representative.
Smith said training will be provided in virtual, in-person and hybrid formats by DAR agents or community health agents in the AgriLife Extension family.
“This is an important part of the recovery process after disasters like wildfires,” Smith said. “Texans always respond to disasters like good neighbors, and we want our community members to be as confident in treating someone with mental health issues as we are with someone who has broken an ankle.” We want to help. Just like physical injuries, mental health issues can be remedied with the right intervention and care.”