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TheWell@Caltech

Eaton Fire Resources

As Caltech continues to respond to the needs of those affected by the wildfire crisis, we recognize the significant mental health impact this has had on our entire community.

Mental health is a top concern for individuals and family once physical safety has been established. Many are facing catastrophic losses, trauma, and continued displacement and disruption. It is normal to experience anxiety, sleep disruption, shock, and grief. Caltech offers a number of resources for supporting ourselves and each other during this time of crisis. Timely assistance and intervention after a trauma can help head off long-term symptoms of distress.

Connect, Find Support, Be Heard

The devastating wildfires have had a profound effect on our entire community. The trauma of multiple losses continues to unfold as damages are assessed, and neighborhoods come together.

The Caltech Staff and Faculty Consultation Center is opening up "Listening Spaces" to offer time to connect with others in our Caltech community. These sessions will be led by a counselor from the Staff and Faculty Consultation Center, and will be a chance to:

  • Be heard
  • Share resources
  • Find ways to cope with grief and trauma

We will start with Zoom meetings, and offer the opportunity to create ongoing "Support Pods" that can take place online, by phone, or in person following the initial sessions.

Trauma research tells us that connecting with others with similar concerns can be the most helpful. Please register for the session that best fits you.

Post-fire support spaces:

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

11am – Support space – Postdocs

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/M0uOutNMQ0u2yM-zS2haUw

11am – Support space – Loss of Community Anchors (church, school, family member's home, etc.)

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/bdFNRdyfSLG_rNFrC89PxQ

2pm – Support Space - Spanish language group

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/goaRZU_rSvq9IUu0716l0g

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

11am – Support Space - Parenting Concerns

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/0W4KiAWRSruA_485GnGg7A

11am – Support Space - Home Loss/Damage – Renters

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/Ak6VpgBRQjSJJXlz6UC71g

11am – Support Space - General/Other

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/ggV97rtNSEWeM4fXb9NiLA

Friday, February 14, 2025

11am – Support Space – Home loss/Damage – Homeowners

https://caltech.zoom.us/meeting/register/Fj6y1bjFSaqCQNkGsivi2Q

We also encourage Caltech community members to access these resources:

For Staff, Faculty, and Postdocs:

The Caltech Staff and Faculty Consultation Center provides:

  • Brief confidential consultations with licensed therapists, at no cost
  • Online resources specific to coping with the present situation
  • Consultation to managers and supervisors
  • Targeted outreach
  • Resources at both charging centers on campus

Please contact the SFCC at (626) 395-8360 or email SFCC@caltech.edu

For Undergraduate and Graduate Students:

Caltech's Student Wellness Services/Counseling provides:

Please contact Counseling Services at (626) 395-8331 or send a secure message in the Student Health Portal

For All Community Members:

Aetna is providing additional support services during this crisis period:

https://hr.caltech.edu/departments/total-rewards/benefits/los-angeles-wildfires-resources

Useful Resources:

A robust resource for individuals and families:

https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/disaster-preparedness/disaster-types/wildfires

Los Angeles Department of Mental Health resources:

https://dmh.lacounty.gov/our-services/disaster-services/disaster-mh-resources/

Care Camp for Youth and Teens - Los Angeles County is offering daytime care camp for kids and teens in affected families:

https://parks.lacounty.gov/care-camps/

Mental health resources from LA County Department of Mental Health (It has a comprehensive list of resources and information links)
Disaster Mental Health Resources - Department of Mental Health

Information on Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event
Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event Factsheet | Natural Disasters | CDC

Emergency Preparedness Office of the California Department of Public Health
Wildfires & Mental Health

American Psychological Association
Recovering from wildfires

Parents.com
How to Talk to Your Kids About the California Wildfires

A Reference for Maintaining Mental Health & Well-Being by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health

Wildfires- Protect your Emotional Well Being-ENG

Suicide Prevention Hotline (800) 273-8255

Printable Tip Sheets

Other Useful Mental Health Resources

County Social Service Help

Emotional Wellbeing (Free Resources)

Mindfulness & Guided Meditation