Breathing problems and burns aren't the only health effects from this week's wildfires. Doctors say people with anxiety-related symptoms and other mental health issues are starting to show up in local emergency rooms. KPBS reporter Kenny Goldberg has the story.
Doctors say as recovery efforts get underway, people will start to feel the emotional trauma of the fires. Dr. Brent Eastman is the chief medical officer for Scripps Health. He has a team of doctors stationed at the disaster aid center in Rancho Bernardo.
Brent Eastman: I've seen an elderly woman this morning, very anxious, lost everything, and she's one of those people who is just extremely depressed. And we think the mental health issues we're gonna begin to see now, but that's gonna go on for a long time.
Mental health professionals say people should discuss their feelings about the disaster with friends and family. If anxiety and sadness persist or become overwhelming, counseling can help.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
