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August 13, 2026
Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov
Wildfire smoke and evacuation threats can take a toll on mental health
Staying connected, taking breaks from the news and seeking support can help people cope during wildfire season
PORTLAND, Ore - Wildfires can affect more than the air we breathe. The uncertainty of an approaching fire, evacuation warnings, disrupted routines, loss of property or community, and prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can create stress, anxiety, grief and other emotional responses.
As wildfires and smoke continue to impact communities across Oregon, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding people that supporting mental health is an important part of wildfire preparedness and recovery.
“It's completely understandable to feel uneasy when wildfires are threatening our communities or when smoke is affecting the air we breathe,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., OHA health officer and state epidemiologist. “These conditions can take a real toll on our physical and mental health. Taking care of ourselves, staying connected with others and knowing where to turn for support can help us cope during these difficult times.”
Wildfire stress can affect anyone.
People may experience a range of emotions during and after a wildfire, including fear, sadness, anger, grief, helplessness, trouble sleeping or difficulty concentrating. Children and teens may also have strong emotional reactions, even when they do not directly experience a fire or evacuation.
People who have experienced previous disasters or wildfire losses may find that a new fire or smoke event brings back difficult memories.
OHA recommends several ways people can support themselves and others:
Check in with neighbors, friends and coworkers
A simple conversation can help people feel less alone. Reach out to people who may need additional support, including older adults, children, people with disabilities and those who may have difficulty evacuating or accessing resources.
Create space to express emotions
Give people permission to talk about what they are experiencing at their own pace and without judgment. This can be especially important for children and teens.
Encourage rest and recovery
Healing takes time. Maintaining routines when possible, getting enough rest and reconnecting with people and activities that bring comfort can help restore a sense of stability.
Take breaks from the news and social media
Staying informed is important during an emergency, but continuously monitoring wildfire coverage can increase stress and anxiety. Check trusted sources for updates, then give yourself permission to step away.
Prepare for evacuation
Having a plan can reduce some of the uncertainty that comes with a wildfire threat. Know your evacuation zone and routes, sign up for emergency alerts, keep important medications and documents accessible, and have a go-bag ready.
Protecting mental health during smoke events
People do not have to navigate the emotional effects of wildfire alone.
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support.
- Lines for Life: 800-923-HELP (4357) provides emotional support and help connecting with resources. Oregon's wildfire recovery resources also direct people to Lines for Life for emotional support, with interpreters available.
- YouthLine: Young people can call 877-968-8491 or text teen2teen to 839863 for support.
- The AgriStress HelpLine is a free, 24/7 hotline for Oregon's agricultural and forestry communities, including farmers, ranchers, fishermen, foresters, and their families. Call or text: (833) 897-2474. Helpline operators are trained to understand the unique stressors and situations of agriculture, forestry, and fishing. All calls are answered within 30 seconds.
People affected by a wildfire who need help finding food, shelter, health care, emotional support or other services can also connect with 211 for local resources.
Support for children and teens
Parents and caregivers can help children feel safer by providing reassurance, maintaining routines when possible and giving children opportunities to ask questions and express their feelings.
During a wildfire or evacuation, children may need additional reassurance and opportunities to reconnect with familiar people and routines. Adults can model healthy coping behaviors by taking breaks, getting rest, talking with others and asking for help when needed.
Additional resources:
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