PORTLAND, Ore. (Aug. 15, 2026) — Wildfires can affect more than the air people breathe. The uncertainty of an approaching fire, evacuation warnings, disrupted routines, property or community losses and prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can contribute to stress, anxiety, grief and other emotional responses.
As wildfires and smoke continue to affect communities across Oregon, the Oregon Health Authority is reminding residents that protecting 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, 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 and helplessness. Some people may have trouble sleeping or concentrating.
Children and teenagers can also experience strong emotional reactions, even if they do not directly experience a fire or evacuation. For people who have experienced previous disasters or wildfire losses, a new fire or smoke event can bring back difficult memories.
OHA recommends several steps to help people cope:
- Check in with others. A conversation with a neighbor, friend or co-worker can help people feel less isolated. Pay particular attention to older adults, children, people with disabilities and those who may have difficulty evacuating or accessing resources.
- Make space for emotions. Give people an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing at their own pace and without judgment. This can be especially important for children and teens.
- Prioritize rest and recovery. Maintaining routines when possible, getting adequate rest and reconnecting with people and activities that provide comfort can help restore a sense of stability.
- Take breaks from news and social media. Staying informed during an emergency is important, but continuously monitoring wildfire coverage can increase stress and anxiety. Check trusted sources for updates, then step away when possible.
- Prepare for evacuation. Knowing your evacuation zone and routes, signing up for emergency alerts, keeping important medications and documents accessible and having a go-bag ready can reduce some of the uncertainty associated with a wildfire threat.
Support is available during smoke and wildfire events
OHA said people do not have to navigate the emotional effects of a wildfire alone.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 for free, confidential crisis support.
Lines for Life can be reached at 800-923-4357 for emotional support and help connecting with resources. Oregon wildfire recovery resources also direct residents to Lines for Life for emotional support, with interpreters available.
Young people can contact YouthLine by calling 877-968-8491 or texting teen2teen to 839863.
The AgriStress HelpLine provides free, 24/7 support for Oregon’s agricultural and forestry communities, including farmers, ranchers, fishermen, foresters and their families. The number is 833-897-2474 by call or text. Operators are trained to understand the unique challenges facing agriculture, forestry and fishing communities.
People affected by a wildfire who need help locating food, shelter, health care, emotional support or other services can also contact 211 for local resources.
Helping children cope
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 also model healthy coping behaviors by taking breaks, getting adequate rest, talking with others and asking for help when needed.
Wildfire preparedness is often focused on evacuation routes, emergency supplies and protecting property. OHA says mental health deserves a place in those preparations as well.
Recognizing stress, staying connected and seeking support when needed can help individuals, families and communities navigate the emotional effects of wildfire season.
For information on wildfire and smoke, crisis and trauma resources, wildfire recovery assistance and evacuation preparedness, residents can consult resources from the Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Department of Human Services and Oregon Department of Emergency Management.
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