{
  "id": 2463406,
  "title": "What to Do When Wildfires Trigger Trauma",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/what-to-do-when-wildfires-trigger-trauma",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-22T00:54:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tempo.co English",
    "slug": "tempo-co-english",
    "url": "https://en.tempo.co/read/2118057/what-to-do-when-wildfires-trigger-trauma"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In recent years, Germany has experienced an alarming increase in wildfires, with 2023 seeing more land burned than the average over the past two decades. The most devastating wildfire in the country's history occurred in North Rhine-Westphalia, destroying between 300 to 400 hectares of the Hürtgen Forest. Weeks of drought and strong winds fueled the flames, making firefighting efforts challenging. Over 1,500 firefighters battled the blaze for a week, often working 12-hour shifts, as they faced both physical and mental strain.\n\nSpokesperson Peter Berndgen highlighted the enormous stress firefighters experience, both physically and mentally. He described the constant alertness and fear of the situation spiraling out of control, as well as the challenge of regaining control amidst the flames. While not everyone develops post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), many firefighters face the risk of developing this condition. Symptoms include reliving the traumatic event, nightmares, and flashbacks. Meyer-Lindenberg noted that PTSD is three times more common among firefighters than in the general population.\n\nHowever, not all firefighters suffer from PTSD. Some recover naturally, while others may experience depression, anxiety, addiction, or suicidal thoughts. Population groups like children, adolescents, those with pre-existing mental illnesses, and women are more susceptible to these mental health issues. Firefighters often have a higher protective factor due to experience, teamwork, and clear operational structures. Berndgen emphasized that psychological support and talking about experiences are essential for firefighters. Taking action and feeling a sense of control can also help mitigate feelings of helplessness.",
  "summary": "Psychologists say post-traumatic stress disorder caused by disasters including wildfires is serious but can be treated if people seek help.",
  "key_points": [
    "Wildfires in Germany increased, 2023 had most land burned in 2 decades",
    "1,500 firefighters battled Hürtgen Forest blaze for a week",
    "PTSD risk three times higher among firefighters vs general population"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}