Stock photo courtesy of Interior Health

By Liam Verster

Mental Health Support

Informative event to support people concerned with wildfire

Aug 6, 2024 | 6:00 AM

People who experience anxiety due to the smoky skies and the thoughts of wildfires and evacuations can access some resources in Vernon.

The Vernon and District branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA Vernon) will host a one-hour Ahead of the Fire information session for people to learn how to prepare their mental health for wildfire and learn techniques for lessening anxiety.

Dani Hamilton, a wellness education coordinator with CMHA, will lead the presentation and provide coping and stress management tips to participants so they can be more prepared to deal with fire events. There will also be resources available for attendees to bring home.

“Wildfire has become almost normalized in the Okanagan in recent years and that is influencing how we think and respond,” Julia Payson, executive director of CMHA Vernon, said.

“Reports of wildfires in other communities can trigger a range of feelings. That’s why it’s important to add some new tools to your mental health toolbox.”

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The event, put on by CMHA Vernon in partnership with the Okanagan Regional Library and the North Okanagan Hospice Society, will go from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Vernon Public Library.

“Last year, we heard from NOHS staff and volunteers that feelings of grief, loss, and bereavement were especially heightened for Hospice residents and their loved ones during active fire season,” said Lisa Matthews, North Okanagan Hospice Society executive director.

“When we heard that CMHA Vernon had developed a program and resource kit to support individuals dealing with climate grief and anxiety, it was the perfect opportunity to partner up and share this resource with the wider community at the Vernon Library.”