How can we begin to maintain mental health through the difficulties associated with wildfires? As of May 10, 2023 there are an estimated 3300 square kilometers battling wildfires of note in this province. Today, many Albertans are displaced, seeking shelter, and some have lost their homes. Those in the ‘thick of it’ have been on our minds. As before, #AlbertaStrong rings true and it is inspiring to witness our community rally together to support those in need.
Nonetheless, the struggle of leaving your home on a moments’ notice can precipitate all the emotions. Anger. Frustration. Helplessness. Sadness. There is no ‘correct’ emotional response to these circumstances. There are, however, some things we can do to help ease our experience in any emergency situation.
- Put your mask on first. If not already evacuated, ensure you have bags packed with enough fresh water, food, medications for at least 72-hours; and essential personal identification, are packed and ready to go. Tend to your personal safety and heed the recommendations of emergency response personnel.
- Information. There is a healthy amount of information necessary to maintain your personal safety, and that is often much less than what we ‘consume’. Essential information related to the wildfires can be found at: https://www.alberta.ca/emergency.aspx
- When away from our regular routine, it can be difficult not to focus on information related to the current emergency. Prioritize and sprinkle moments of mindfulness into your day. Here’s a 10min Body Scan, courtesy of Tara Brach, if a guided meditation feels supportive to you: https://www.tarabrach.com/meditation-mindful-body-scan/ ; and/or a 10min guided meditation using Tara’s RAIN practice: https://www.tarabrach.com/meditation-mindful-body-scan/
- Community. Our most difficult days can feel more tolerable when we experience them with community. Check in on your people, neighbors, the individuals you may meet as you carry about your day. Support one another. Reach out if you are in need of more support.
- Take good care of one another. Wishing you a healthy and safe day.
Holsom Wellness 