Healing After the Los Angeles Fires: How to Cope With Anxiety, Grief, and Loss.

Experiencing a devastating natural disaster can trigger a wide variety of intense emotions, including shock, terror, disbelief, and helplessness. The fires in the Pacific Palisades, Pasadena, and Alta Dena have not only impacted the mental health of residents whose neighborhoods were in the path of the fire, but the mental health of residents across the entire city who witnessed the devastation from afar but could not take action to help.

We have yet to see what the exact mental health impact will be on residents throughout the city, as many people are still in a state of shock after experiencing a life or death situation, and others are in shock due to witnessing this immense tragedy. This shock will last weeks or even months. We are seeing groups of people organizing and gathering to help provide resources, housing, and support which will play a key role in the healing of the city. The helplessness many people felt and continue to feel is now turning into action, and action is incredibly empowering and can be the antidote to despair.

There is a collective sense of sadness and grief permeating Los Angeles. People heal in community, so it is very important to talk about the way you’re feeling with the people around you, and to spend time with people who you feel safe with and supported by.

People may show signs of post traumatic stress disorder including intrusive memories like nightmares, unwanted memories, and flashbacks. These distressing thoughts may lead to avoidance of people, places, or things that remind them of the event, and will likely be experiencing what is known as “emotional numbing”. Disconnection and dissociation from one’s emotions is a coping strategy and survival instinct that allows a person to compartmentalize traumatic experiences in order to function.
If you have a friend or a loved one who was impacted by the fires, you may notice negative changes in their mood and cognition.

After trauma, many survivors feel self-blame, shame, and guilt, and they may no longer see the world as a safe place. Other symptoms of depression may begin to manifest, including social withdrawal, isolation, and loss of interest in activities that once mattered to them. They may also experience memory problems which can also be a dissociative response to trauma. On the other hand they may become hypervigilant- this could look like irritability, difficulty sleeping, seeming “jumpy”, and trouble concentrating.

Survivors of the fire may begin to experience physical symptoms as well. This might include headaches, stomach issues, muscle tension, and fatigue. The toll of living in a hypervigilant state often manifests psychologically and physically.

Processing these experiences and emotions will take time. Although many people feel the desire to find normalcy as quickly as possible, we need to recognize that the normal we knew before is not the same normal we will build moving forward. The emotional aftermath of a natural disaster is not linear. Be patient and gentle with yourself and your loved ones as they move through the grief and disbelief. Some days will be more difficult than others, but there are also brighter days ahead.

About the Author

I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice in California focused on helping young professionals heal from anxiety and burnout, and quiet the critical internal voices of perfectionism. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more!


The one tip I would most recommend if you are struggling right now is to lean on your support system, and reach out for extra support when you need it. People are not meant to process these types of events alone. We need each other and we will be the most important part of one another’s healing
Therapy is another resource to lean on when you need extra support. Please know that there are therapists all across LA who have come together for our amazing community. We are here to support you!

Resources:

https://www.cdss.ca.gov/disaster-help-center

https://lafla.org/fire-referral-list/

https://www.ca.gov/LAFires/

https://www.lahsa.org/newsArticle/resources-to-support-those-during-the-la-fires

https://www.iaem.org/Resources/Los-Angeles-Fire-Resources

https://disability.lacity.gov/emergency-resources

Share

Climate Anxiety: How Therapy Can Help You Cope With Environmental Stress

In recent years, more and more people are experiencing climate anxiety—a deep sense of worry, fear, or sadness about the state of the environment and the future of the planet. If you’re struggling with feelings of eco-stress, you're not alone. As global concerns about climate change grow, more individuals are turning to therapy for climate anxiety to learn how to cope with these overwhelming emotions.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by environmental grief, anxious about future climate disasters, or simply unsure of how to process your thoughts about the planet’s future, therapy for eco-stress can offer you the support and tools you need. In this post, I’ll explain what climate anxiety is, how it impacts mental health, and how therapy can help you manage eco-anxiety and find peace in an uncertain world.

What is Climate Anxiety and Eco-Stress?

Climate anxiety refers to the fear, sadness, or worry individuals experience in response to climate change and its potential consequences. These feelings can stem from fear of environmental destruction- concerns about extreme weather, rising sea levels, and the potential loss of ecosystems, guilt or helplessness- worry about personal actions contributing to environmental degradation, or feeling like there’s nothing you can do to make a difference. It can also create a profound sense of mourning for the loss of nature, wildlife, and the health of the planet as well as physical symptoms of anxiety including insomnia, fatigue, headaches, or chest tightness triggered by the stress of climate change.

If you're experiencing any of these feelings, it’s important to acknowledge that eco-anxiety is a natural and valid response to the current climate crisis. However, when left unchecked, these emotions can lead to chronic stress, depression, and burnout. This is where therapy can be a valuable resource.

I work with clients who are struggling to manage their climate anxiety and eco-stress, and have seen this issue become more prevalent recently. Therapy provides a supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, process your emotions, and develop healthy coping strategies. Here’s how therapy can help you cope with eco-anxiety:

The first step in therapy is understanding the emotions connected to your anxiety. In our sessions, we’ll explore your fears and worries surrounding climate change. Whether it’s the future of the planet or the emotional impact of environmental destruction, I’ll help you process these feelings so that you can make sense of them.

Recognizing that your anxiety is a natural reaction to the overwhelming global crisis can be the first step in reducing its intensity. Understanding the root of your emotions can also empower you to take control over them, rather than feeling controlled by them.Coping with climate anxiety requires tools that help you manage your emotional response to environmental stressors. I’ll teach you evidence-based coping strategies that can reduce feelings of helplessness and anxiety. Some of the techniques we might use include mindfulness, breathing exercises, grounding exercises, and creating a plan of action based steps you can take in your life.

Many people I work with experience guilt and helplessness when it comes to their environmental footprint. You might feel that no matter what you do, it won’t make a meaningful difference, or you may feel burdened by the environmental crisis without knowing how to act. Therapy can help you reframe these feelings by shifting your focus toward empowerment and action.

Together, we’ll explore small, meaningful changes you can make to align your actions with your values, such as reducing your personal carbon footprint, supporting sustainable businesses, and advocating for climate-friendly policies.

These actions, no matter how small, can give you a sense of agency and purpose, reducing feelings of helplessness.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges, and therapy is a great place to build it. In therapy, we’ll work together to enhance your emotional flexibility, helping you to stay resilient in the face of eco-anxiety. This involves learning how to treat yourself with kindness, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world, shifting your focus to moments of joy and beauty in nature, no matter how small they may seem, and building a sense of community with others who share your environmental concerns. This can create a sense of solidarity and reduce feelings of isolation.

Developing these tools will help you build emotional resilience and regulate your emotions when the weight of climate stress feels too heavy.

Therapy isn’t just about coping with climate anxiety—it’s also about finding meaningful ways to take action. Taking positive steps towards environmental sustainability can alleviate feelings of helplessness and guilt. Together, we can explore ways to advocate for change, such as participating in environmental movements, volunteering for green initiatives, and educating yourself and others about sustainability practices.

By channeling your anxiety into purposeful action, you’ll feel a greater sense of control and hope for the future.

Seeking Support for Climate Anxiety

If you’re struggling with climate anxiety or eco-stress, therapy can offer the support you need. I offer a space where you can explore your feelings, develop coping strategies, and work through your emotions related to climate change. Whether in person or online, therapy can help you manage the stress of living in an uncertain world.

About the Author

I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice focused on helping young professionals heal from anxiety and burnout, and quiet the critical internal voices of perfectionism. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more!

The reality of climate change is daunting, and it’s completely normal to feel anxious, sad, or overwhelmed by it. However, you don’t have to navigate this anxiety alone. Therapy offers a space to process eco-stress, build resilience, and take meaningful action. Together, we can explore your feelings about the climate crisis, identify ways to manage your anxiety, and help you develop a sense of hope and empowerment.

If you're ready to take the first step towards understanding and working through environmental anxiety, I’m here to help you move through it and find peace. You don’t have to carry the weight of the world alone—let’s work through this together.

Share

Hesitant About Starting Therapy? Here are 7 Tips to Help Jumpstart the Process.

I’ve found in my work that people tend to be hesitant to receive mental health treatment for a few reasons. Stigma, fear of the unknown, and internalized feelings of being "broken" are among the top reasons. Our culture has stigmatized mental health care for centuries, and we are just now beginning to unravel the fraught history of our societal treatment of people with mental health challenges. The way a person's family of origin spoke about (or did not speak about) mental health also plays an important role in how a person will view themselves if they reach out for therapy. People often worry about the people in their life seeing them differently if they begin therapy.


When clients start the therapy process, they can feel nervous, and they can feel worried that something is wrong with them because they may have been feeling so unlike themselves recently. They might feel worried that nothing or no one will be able to help them. People come to therapy looking for relief and understanding, so I will often validate my clients by reminding them they are taking a very important step forward in prioritizing their mental health and that they are taking care of themselves just by showing up to a first session. It shows that they are motivated and ready for change, even though they may be nervous about starting treatment.

My priority as a therapist is to create a sense of safety and support in the therapy room and in the relationships I have with my clients. Every client has specific and unique needs, so I make sure to work at a pace that is appropriate for each individual client. Some people feel ready to share difficult experiences during the first session, others need weeks or months. There is no timeline for therapy, and allowing a person to trust themselves and their own readiness is crucial to therapeutic progress. I aim to build safety with clients by using a curious, non-judgmental approach, and I normalize their experience if they are feeling hesitant or nervous about starting therapy, and as a matter of face, the therapeutic work often starts with addressing a client's beliefs about mental health treatment and how those beliefs impact the way they see themselves.

If you're feeling hesitant about starting therapy, you're not alone. Many people feel nervous or unsure about seeking professional help for their mental health, but it's important to remember that therapy is a valuable tool for improving your overall well-being.

Here are some tips to help you overcome your hesitations and take the first step towards therapy:

1. Acknowledge your feelings

It's okay to feel hesitant or nervous about starting therapy. Recognize that it's a normal response to seeking help for your mental health, and that it's okay to feel vulnerable. It's important to acknowledge your feelings and work through them in order to move forward.

2. Identify the source of your hesitation

Try to pinpoint exactly what is making you feel hesitant about starting therapy. Are you worried about the stigma surrounding mental health? Are you unsure about what to expect in therapy? Identifying the source of your hesitation can help you address it and move past it.

3. Research different therapy options

There are many different types of therapy available, from cognitive behavioral therapy to mindfulness-based therapy. Researching different therapy options can help you find one that resonates with you and feels like a good fit. Consider reaching out to a therapist to ask questions about their approach to therapy and how it might work for you.

4. Find a therapist you feel comfortable with

Finding a therapist you feel comfortable with is key to a successful therapy experience. Look for a therapist who specializes in the issues you're dealing with and who has a personality and communication style that makes you feel at ease. Many therapists offer free initial consultations, which can be a good opportunity to see if you feel comfortable working with them. Ask these therapists as many questions as you want! There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to therapy so be sure to get clarity on anything you feel unsure about.

5. Start small

If you're feeling hesitant about committing to regular therapy sessions, start small. Consider scheduling a single session or a short-term therapy program to see how it feels. This can help you get a sense of whether therapy is something that could be beneficial for you in the long-term.

6. Remember that therapy is confidential

Confidentiality is an important aspect of therapy. It's important to remember that what you discuss in therapy is kept private and confidential. This can help alleviate some of the worries or fears you may have about seeking help.

7. Be patient with yourself

Remember that therapy is a process, and it may take some time to see progress. Be patient with yourself and trust the process. It's important to give yourself time to work through the issues you're dealing with and to allow yourself to experience the benefits of therapy.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous or uneasy about starting something you’ve never tried before, especially therapy. The best thing you can do is get all of your questions answered so that you can make a decision to see a therapist that you feel happy and comfortable with. Please feel free to give me a call or reach out through my contact page to talk through any questions you have about starting therapy with me!

Therapist for anxiety los angeles hermosa beach stress coping

About the Author

I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice focused on helping young professionals heal from anxiety and burnout, and quiet the critical internal voices of perfectionism. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more!

Share

Navigating the World as a Highly Sensitive Person: Common Experiences, Challenges, and Strengths

Highly sensitive individuals possess heightened sensitivity to stimuli, emotions, and the environment around them. Are you someone who feels deeply and notices the subtleties of the world around you? If so, you may be a highly sensitive person (HSP).

As a highly sensitive person, you may find that your emotions run deep and vibrant. You may have a heightened awareness of your surroundings, noticing even the slightest changes in your environment. Your empathetic nature enables you to feel the emotions of others deeply, fostering a strong sense of connection. You may also have a keen eye for detail, appreciating the beauty in the small things that others may overlook.

Embracing your sensitivity can be accompanied by certain challenges. You may feel easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces. It's essential for you to find moments of solitude and recharge, as the stimulation of the outside world can drain your energy. Additionally, setting boundaries and saying no can be difficult for you, as your compassionate nature often compels you to prioritize the needs of others. This can lead to feelings of burnout and neglecting your own well-being.

You may also face misconceptions and misunderstandings from those who don't understand the depth of your sensitivity. It's common to feel different or out of place, especially in a society that often values toughness and resilience over emotional authenticity.

Your sensitivity is a gift that brings with it remarkable strengths. Your deep empathy allows you to understand and connect with others on a profound level. People naturally gravitate towards your compassionate and supportive nature, finding solace in your ability to listen and provide comfort. Your keen observation skills and attention to detail make you a problem-solver, as you notice the nuances that others may miss. On the other hand, though, you might find yourself becoming burnt out by the emotional toll it takes on you to be the supportive one in many of your relationships.

Highly sensitive people often possess a rich inner world and a natural inclination towards creativity. You may excel in artistic endeavors, using your sensitivity as a wellspring of inspiration and self-expression. Your intuitive nature and emotional intelligence enable you to navigate complex social dynamics with grace and understanding, building meaningful relationships based on empathy and authenticity.

Embracing your sensitivity as a highly sensitive person is a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. By understanding the common experiences, challenges, and strengths that come with being an HSP, you can navigate the world with authenticity and compassion. Celebrate your sensitivity, for it is a unique and powerful trait that allows you to make a profound difference in your own life and the lives of others.


About Victoria Smith, LCSW

I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice focused on helping HSPs use their sensitivities to make an impact on their lives and in their communities. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more!

Share

The Mental Health Impacts of Entrepreneurship

Starting and running a business can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it can also take a toll on one's mental health. Entrepreneurship is a challenging and stressful endeavor that can lead to a host of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and burnout. Here we will explore the various mental health impacts of owning a business and provide tips and strategies for maintaining good mental health as an entrepreneur.

One of the biggest stressors you may experience as an entrepreneur is the constant pressure to keep your business afloat. The financial and operational risks of running a business can lead to feelings of uncertainty and insecurity, which can cause anxiety and depression. Additionally, the pressure to constantly innovate, create, and grow the business can be overwhelming and can lead to feelings of burnout. This is where having a solid business plan and a clear strategy can help you manage the stress of running a business.

Another stressor for entrepreneurs is the feeling of isolation. Starting and running a business often means working alone, and this can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection. You may also find it difficult to disconnect from you business, leading to a lack of work-life balance and further exacerbating stress and mental health issues. Joining a community of like-minded entrepreneurs can provide a sense of connection and support, and can help you feel less isolated. This community can also provide a source of inspiration, motivation, and advice.

Entrepreneurs also face unique challenges related to their personal and professional identities. The success or failure of your business can have a direct impact on their self-esteem, self-worth, and sense of identity. This can lead to a host of emotional and mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. It is important for you to set realistic and achievable goals, and not to define your worth solely by the success of their business.

Another effective strategy for maintaining good mental health is by practicing self-care. It is crucial to make time for activities that are solely for pleasure, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with friends and family. It is important to establish healthy boundaries between your work and personal life, and take regular breaks to prevent burnout. Self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for entrepreneurs, and intentionally incorporating self-care into your routine allows you to build this positive habit.

Entrepreneurs should also consider seeking professional help if they are struggling with their mental health. A therapist or counselor can provide support, guidance, and strategies for managing stress and maintaining your mental health. Therapy can help you identify and process the underlying emotions and thoughts that are contributing to you mental health challenges.

The mental health impacts of owning a business can be significant, but there are strategies that you can use to mitigate these impacts. Building a support system, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help are essential for maintaining good mental health as an entrepreneur. By taking steps to prioritize your mental health, you can increase your chances of success in business and in life.

If you’d like to talk more about how therapy can help you succeed as an entrepreneur, please set up a call with me here.

I am licensed in the state of California and can hold sessions virtually and in person.

Disclaimer

This blog is for educational purposes only. The information contained in this blog article is not intended to be a replacement for mental health care. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 for free 24/7 support in the U.S.

About the Author

I am a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Victoria Smith, LCSW, Inc., an online and in-person therapy practice focused on helping young professionals heal from anxiety and burnout, and quiet the critical internal voices of perfectionism. If you’re a California resident, schedule a free consultation call to learn more!

Share

Are You Burned Out? [Symptom Assessment]

If you’re wondering if you are burned out, it is likely that you understand the term on a gut level, and are feeling completely exhausted and depleted. Our bodies are great at giving us signs and signals that we are at capacity and burned out, but we don’t always listen to those cues until we hit a point where we can no longer ignore the feelings.

Read more
Share