How First Responders Are at Risk for PTSD & CPTSD After L.A. Wildfires 

— Dr. Jamie Huysman Founder ED and Milena Stankovic Co-Founder —

Since January 7, 2025, Southern California has been grappling with a series of 30 wildfires that have devastated the Los Angeles metropolitan area and surrounding regions. 

As of January 18, 2025, two of the largest fires – the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades and the Eaton Fire in Altadena – continue to burn. 

These fires have caused the most destruction, likely ranking as the fourth and second most devastating wildfires in California’s history.

While the physical devastation is evident, the psychological toll on residents and first responders often goes unnoticed. 

STAR Network is the leading global trauma support network, offering groundbreaking, virtual, free, and accessible programs to heal individuals and families impacted by trauma. 

By prioritizing PTSD and CPTSD recovery, the STAR Network provides a scientifically and spiritually innovative 12-step and 12-promises delivery system for local, regional, and national utilization. 

This system integrates seamlessly with existing care delivery systems, empowering “hard to connect” and “hard to reach” communities, including police officers, veterans, firefighters, and other first responders, to access psychosocial care and achieve better outcomes.

Dr. Jamie Huysman, Founder and ED of STAR Network, a renowned trauma expert, explains: 

“CPTSD and PTSD are deeply intertwined with grief and the process of radical acceptance. Healing requires acknowledging pain, embracing support, and taking the steps to rebuild lives and relationships.”

The Emotional Aftermath of Wildfires

Natural disasters like wildfires often create intense emotional stress. People directly affected, whether through the loss of a home, loved one, or personal injury, are particularly at risk for mental health conditions. 

The emotional turmoil can manifest as anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

During traumatic events, individuals commonly feel a loss of control and experience a range of emotions, from shock and sadness to anger and hopelessness. 

Over time, these feelings can evolve into deeper psychological challenges. Existing research confirms that exposure to wildfires increases rates of anxiety and depression, especially among those with preexisting conditions. 

Without proper care, untreated PTSD can lead to substance abuse, chronic health issues, and damaged relationships.

Challenges for First Responders

Firefighters and emergency responders face unique mental health risks. Their roles expose them to dangerous situations, long shifts, and extended time away from family and familiar support systems. 

These factors make them more prone to PTSD and other trauma-related conditions compared to the general population. 

While trained for high-pressure situations, the ongoing stress can still take a toll, highlighting the need for mental health support within these professions.

CPTSD and Firefighters: The Hidden Costs of Heroism

Wildfires, while often a single catastrophic event, can lead to PTSD due to their suddenness, unpredictability, and devastating impact. 

However, for individuals who face repeated exposure to such disasters or endure prolonged stress during evacuation, displacement, or rebuilding, these experiences can evolve into Complex PTSD (CPTSD).

CPTSD goes beyond the symptoms of PTSD – such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts – and includes additional challenges like:

• Emotional Dysregulation: Difficulty managing intense emotions, which can arise during long periods of uncertainty or instability caused by wildfires.
• Persistent Negative Self-View: Feelings of helplessness or shame, especially for individuals who struggle to recover financially or emotionally after losing homes or loved ones.
• Difficulty Maintaining Relationships: Strain in family or community bonds due to the emotional toll and the shared trauma of a disaster.

First responders, including firefighters and emergency personnel, are also at high risk for CPTSD. 

Repeated exposure to life-threatening situations and the suffering of others can lead to long-term emotional and psychological effects.

Solutions for Addressing the Mental Health Crisis

Tackling the mental health fallout from wildfires requires both immediate and long-term strategies:

1. Expand Access to Mental Health Services: Increasing the availability of trauma-informed professionals in disaster-affected areas is critical.
2. Promote Self-Care: Encouraging individuals to limit exposure to distressing news and focus on emotional well-being is vital.
3. Support Programs like TAR Anon™: Powered by the STAR Network, TAR Anon offers an international fellowship dedicated to helping individuals recover from trauma.

TAR Anon provides a free online peer-to-peer support group, making it accessible to a wide range of people. 

Members share their experiences and strength to work through personal challenges, guided by research-based steps and trained mentors. 

For first responders and others impacted by trauma, programs like TAR Anon offer a pathway to rebuild lives and relationships.

Dr. Jamie emphasizes:

 “Grief and radical acceptance are key components of healing. Acknowledging the pain while embracing the journey forward is how we transform trauma into resilience.”

By addressing the mental health challenges faced by wildfire survivors and first responders, the STAR Network continues to lead the way in trauma recovery, ensuring no one is left behind in the journey to healing.