Mental Health in Disasters

When the World Trade Center was attacked, people were glued to their TVs.  When Hurricane Katrina struck Louisiana or the LA riots of 92’, we were cemented to the TV.  Now it is the ongoing recovery from the Lahaina fires.  But it’s different now, this is right across the water from Molokai.  This involves our home, our ‘ohana, our coworkers, and our friends.  It’s all over the news, social media, and it’s in the hearts and minds of our community, every day.  I set out to fish the shores of Molokai and I find myself staring at the charred remains of Lahaina.

Hearing the stories and watching the videos of the disaster can be a lot to see and listen to.  We’re going to feel that pain as if we were there, especially if we tend to easily put ourselves in the shoes of others.  Difficult emotions run high, we feel helpless, and it all can be overwhelming.  I’ve had to limit my exposure to the stories and media on the fires.  I’m no stranger to trauma and I know when to pump the brakes and take care of myself.  If we want to help, it’s important that we’re actually helpful.  If we’re struggling with the trauma of it all, we are not going to be very helpful.

Do something peaceful and enjoyable regularly to keep your heart positive.  Exercise can help you feel like you’re doing something when there’s nothing you can do.  Go for a peaceful walk on the beach or in the mountains.  If prayer and meditation help, don’t hesitate to make this a regular part of your day. Talk with kupuna, they likely have experience with disasters.  And if your heart is still struggling, go get help.  Talk to a psychologist in Melbourne and take care of your mental health.  

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical well-being. When life feels overwhelming, it’s essential to find ways to process emotions rather than suppress them. Engaging in activities that bring you joy—whether it’s journaling, painting, or simply sitting in nature—can provide a sense of peace and stability. Surrounding yourself with supportive people, sharing your thoughts with trusted friends, or even joining a community group can help ease emotional burdens. However, some experiences leave deeper imprints on the mind, making it harder to move forward. In such cases, professional guidance can be a valuable resource for healing.

For those who have experienced trauma or deeply distressing events, EMDR therapy can be a powerful tool for emotional recovery. This evidence-based approach helps the brain reprocess painful memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing individuals to regain a sense of control. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses guided eye movements to help process traumatic experiences in a safe and structured manner. By working with a trained professional, individuals can gradually shift their responses to past events, fostering resilience and inner peace.

Aaron Mitchell, MS, MHC