ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — It has been nearly a year since Helene devastated much of western North Carolina. Although the storm scarred much of the physical landscape, it also left an emotional wound on many for whom Helene is still very much at the forefront of their minds.
News 13 held a round table discussion on the emotional aftermath of Helene and how many are still struggling to cope with what the storm left behind.
HURRICANE HELENE’S AFTERMATH RAISES MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS IN WNC
For some, it may have been the trauma of seeing their home destroyed in a matter of moments. For others, it may have been feelings of helplessness as the waters rose around them. And, for still others, it may have been the apparent inability to keep their kids safe as the storm grew in intensity.
The result can be anxiety, depression, or even a sense of PTSD as they anticipate the possibility that a storm like Helene could happen again.
‘WE CAN HEAL AND MOVE FORWARD’: PSYCHOLOGIST SHARES TIPS ON MANAGING PTSD AFTER HELENE
In this roundtable, hear from storm survivors, learn from an expert about trauma, and discuss ways to begin the healing process. A former firefighter with the Asheville Fire Department who spent Sept. 27, 2024, as part of a rescue crew looking to save people stranded in rapidly moving waters.
Watch the full round table discussion on News 13 at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10:
- Jessica Daly Participant – Asheville resident
- Nicole Kerschen Participant – Cane Creek resident
- McKenzie Taggart Participant – Morganton resident
- Lt. Matthew Pride Participant / former Asheville Fire Department firefighter
- Ann Dupree Rogers Exec. Dir. Resources for Resilience
For immediate assistance in a mental health crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
There are also local mental health resources available, including:
- RHA Mobile Crisis Management: (888) 573-1006
- WNC Listening Line: (828) 547-4547
- Vaya Health Crisis Line: 1-800-849-6127