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Social Vulnerability, Wildfire Exposure, and Mental Health
Kyla Thomas1, Evan Sandlin1, Marco Angrisani1,2
1Center for Economic and Social Research, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
JAMA Network Open
|July 29, 2026
Summary
Wildfire exposure increased psychological distress, especially for those with existing vulnerabilities. Strengthening social support and housing security can mitigate these mental health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
Background:
- Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity globally.
- The mental health impacts of wildfires, particularly social vulnerability factors, remain understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the association between wildfire exposure and psychological distress.
- To identify social factors that modify wildfire-related mental health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal survey of Los Angeles County residents before and after the January 2025 wildfires.
- Monthly assessments of social vulnerability, wildfire impact, and mental health using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4).
- Two-way fixed-effects models were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- Residents in evacuation zones showed a significant increase in psychological distress (PHQ-4 scores) post-wildfire.
- This association was more pronounced in individuals with lower incomes, housing cost burdens, prefire distress, or limited social support.
- Increased anxiety was the primary driver of the elevated distress scores.
Conclusions:
- Wildfire exposure is linked to increased psychological distress, particularly among vulnerable populations.
- Policies supporting housing security and social support networks are crucial for reducing wildfire-related mental health burdens.
- Targeted interventions for vulnerable groups are essential for mitigating long-term mental health consequences.
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