What to do when wildfires trigger trauma
The wildfires this summer have broken records in Germany and are unlikely to subside in future. Psychologists say post-traumatic stress disorder caused by such disasters is serious but can be treated if people seek help.
This year, Germany has witnessed more wildfires than the annual average from 2006 to 2025. The most severe wildfire struck North Rhine-Westphalia, destroying 300 to 400 hectares of the Hürtgen Forest in the Eifel region. The blaze spread rapidly due to a lack of rain and strong winds, making firefighting efforts challenging. Unexploded munitions from World War II added to the complexity, with some exploding during the battle.
Around 1,500 firefighters labored for a week, working 12-hour shifts, to stabilize the fire. Peter Berndgen, a spokesperson for the volunteer fire department, emphasized the immense physical and mental strain they endured. Constant alertness, fear of the situation spiraling out of control, and the feeling of being unable to cope added to the stress.
Despite being well-prepared, firefighters acknowledge the risk of death in such situations. Andreas Meyer, a psychiatrist from the Central Institute of Mental Health, notes that such traumatic experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), affecting 3 times more firefighters than the general population. Symptoms may include recurring memories, nightmares, and avoidance behavior.
While post-traumatic stress disorder can be successfully treated with behavioral therapy in two-thirds of cases, it may persist for years in some individuals. People affected by wildfires and other disasters are also at risk of developing depression, anxiety disorder, or addiction. Studies reveal that certain groups, such as children, adolescents, poor individuals, those with pre-existing mental health issues, and women, are more susceptible to psychological distress.
Children and adolescents, as well as people with mental illness, women, and those who have experienced previous disasters, are more likely to develop long-lasting PTSD. However, psychological support and a sense of control can aid recovery. Remarkably, firefighters who successfully extinguish fires, like those in the Hürtgen Forest, are less likely to suffer long-term psychological stress.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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