“When I think of home, I think of a place…where there’s love overflowing… I wish I was back there with the things I’ve been knowing…”
~ From the song “Home” by Stephanie Mills

For many Angelenos, the concept of “home” has been profoundly altered in the wake of devastating fires. Home isn’t just a physical structure; it’s where we grow, rest, connect, and restore. It’s an anchor in a chaotic world. Yet, as fires continue to ravage our communities, the safety and stability that home represents can feel heartbreakingly fragile. For some, these aren’t just stories on the news—they’re lived realities with deep emotional impacts.

The Emotional Toll of Displacement

When a fire threatens or destroys a home, the disruption extends beyond the loss of a physical space. It shakes the very foundation of emotional and mental well-being. A home is where memories are made, tokens of a life well-lived are stored, and a sense of grounding is restored after a long day. Losing that space—or even fearing its loss—can evoke grief, anxiety, and disorientation.

For those forced to evacuate, the upheaval is immediate and visceral. Decisions must be made in moments: what to take, what to leave behind. Even if a home remains standing, the trauma of imagining life without it can linger long after the flames have been extinguished.

Grieving What’s Lost

Grief in the wake of a natural disaster is deeply layered and often intangible. It’s not just about losing possessions, heirlooms, or neighborhoods. It’s about the loss of safety, routines, and the certainty of tomorrow. For children, these disruptions can feel especially destabilizing as they try to comprehend a world that suddenly feels unfamiliar.

As a therapist, I’ve witnessed how personal and multifaceted this grief can be. It’s important to remember that all grief is valid, no matter how it compares to someone else’s experience. Your pain deserves acknowledgment.

Finding Stability Amid Chaos

When the idea of home is disrupted, finding new ways to feel grounded becomes essential. This might include:

• Leaning into relationships with loved ones.
• Creating temporary sanctuaries.
• Finding comfort in grounding rituals like journaling, prayer, or daily walks.

Connecting with others can foster a sense of togetherness, even in a temporary space. These small acts of anchoring help provide a sense of stability during uncertain times.

Moving Forward

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain in the aftermath of these fires, know that you are not alone. Reaching out for help—whether by talking with friends, joining support groups, or seeking therapy—is a vital step in processing your emotions and moving forward. Healing takes time, and support is available to help you navigate this journey.

The fires serve as a stark reminder of the fragility and preciousness of home. Yet, they also highlight our resilience and capacity to rebuild. As we navigate these uncertain times, let us hold space for both grief and gratitude, for reflection and rebuilding. Because even when the physical home is disrupted, the essence of what makes it meaningful—love, connection, and care—can never be lost.

Resources for Support

There are countless therapists, groups, and organizations offering free or low-cost therapeutic services. While this list is not exhaustive, it provides some avenues to give or receive support:

• Mutual Aid LA
• Los Angeles County ACCESS Center: 1-800-854-7771
• Jewish Federation Los Angeles
• 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline
• California Department of Public Health
• Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Resources
• List of Independent Providers

If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can navigate these challenges and find paths toward healing.