REDDING, Calif. \u2014 The aftermath of the December floods continues to weigh heavily on residents in the Northstate, with many still struggling to recover both physically and mentally. <\/p>\n
Meagan Wilding, a local resident, was severely impacted by the floods and was forced to evacuate her home for some time with her twin babies. <\/p>\n
A month later, she is still dealing with the damage and its toll on her mental health. <\/p>\n
“I feel like I was kind of in like a state of shock, and I kind of feel like I have been for a while. I feel like I was like couldn\u2019t cry,” Wilding said.<\/p>\n
Ryan Crowe, Assistant Director of Northern Valley Catholic Social Services (NVCSS), emphasized the importance of seeking mental health support early. <\/p>\n
“Mental health, I believe, is extremely important early on. I know a lot of times with different disasters, sometimes we\u2019ll get people 6 months, 9 months later, and it\u2019s hard to navigate through it,” Crowe said. <\/p>\n
He noted that after a natural disaster, individuals may experience confusion, shock, grief and sadness, and that NVCSS is ready to help those in need. <\/p>\n
“I\u2019ve seen before people withdraw from family or activities that they used to, you know, find enjoyment in. I\u2019ve seen isolation before, I\u2019ve seen depression,” he added.<\/p>\n
Wilding expressed gratitude for the community’s support during these challenging times. <\/p>\n
“Just having my family, friends and the community, just rally and be there for us it was really something. It was really special, made me feel really special,” she said. <\/p>\n
Crowe stressed that seeking help now can prevent long-term trauma. If post-disaster assistance is needed, you can call 530-247-3341 or visit the Northern Valley Catholic Social Service website<\/a>. <\/p>\n —<\/p>\n