LA Fires - The Aftermath of Traumatic Events and How to Talk to Your Kids About It

In this episode, we explore the impact of the Los Angeles wildfires on families and the individual person, emphasizing trauma-informed care and support for those affected by disasters. We also cover practical tips for disaster psychiatry, psychological first aid, and how to start an honest conversation with your kids about traumatic exposures.

Topics discussed:

• What is a disaster?
• What is trauma?
• Acute stress disorder vs PTSD
• Risk factors for PTSD
• Goal of psychological first aid + trauma therapy
• Warning/concerning signs of trauma
• How to talk to your kids about a traumatic event

Resources:

• National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/sites/default/files/documents/health/publications/helping-children-and-adolescents-cope-with-disasters-and-other-traumatic-events/helping-children-and-adolescents-cope-with-traumatic-events.pdf
• SAMHSA: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/trauma-violence/child-trauma
• AACAP: https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Disaster_Resource_Center/Home.aspx
• NAMI: https://namialamedacounty.org/resources/about-mental-illness/mental-health-first-aid/

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