Local health departments, exemplified by Ramirez’s team in Los Angeles, play a vital role during emergencies like wildfires and floods, providing mental health support to evacuees. Amidst increasing climate change effects leading to more extreme weather, mental health conditions have surged among those fleeing disasters. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health implemented strategies to comfort individuals without retraumatizing them, emphasizing support over direct discussions on mental health. These improvements aim to ease anxiety and provide essential information to evacuees, crucial in the immediate aftermath of crises.
"We've learned that right when a crisis happens, people don't necessarily want to talk about mental health. Instead, we deliver a message of support."
"The emotional toll of fleeing and possibly losing a home can help cause or exacerbate mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal ideation, and substance use."
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