Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/maui-wildfires-cast-long-mental-health-shadow/
The long shadow of Maui’s wildfires – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pexels)
Maui – Three years after the wildfires swept through the island, the visible scars on the landscape have begun to fade in places, yet the invisible ones remain raw for many residents. A local therapist reports that a significant portion of his patients continue to experience anxiety, grief, and other mental health difficulties that show little sign of easing. The disaster’s reach extends far beyond the initial destruction, touching daily routines and long-term well-being in ways that surprise even those who lived through it.
Quiet Signs of Ongoing Strain
Daily life on the island carries reminders that keep the trauma close. Survivors describe sudden waves of unease triggered by wind, smoke, or even the sight of charred hillsides still visible from certain vantage points. These reactions persist even as rebuilding efforts advance in some neighborhoods and vegetation slowly returns in others.
The therapist’s observations point to a pattern seen in other large-scale disasters: the acute phase passes, but the psychological effects linger. Patients report trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating at work, and strained relationships that trace back to the loss of homes, belongings, and a sense of security. What began as immediate shock has settled into a quieter, more persistent form of distress.
Why Recovery Takes Longer Than Expected
Mental health professionals note…
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Author : Matthias Binder
Publish date : 2026-05-15 12:28:00
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