Abstract

The psychological effects of natural disasters are often overlooked despite their increasing frequency and severity. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States experienced 28 disasters in 2023, surpassing the previous record of 22 events in 2020. Moreover, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) discusses the impact of disasters on mental health and how they are often under-recognized and under-addressed through their report, “Disaster Behavioral Health and Approaches to Community Response and Recovery”. On September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene greatly impacted lives and towns throughout Western North Carolina. As streets were flooded, homes destroyed, and lives lost, numerous factors potentially played a significant role in shaping individuals' mental health experiences following Hurricane Helene. This study aims to investigate how the degree of hurricane-related loss, adverse childhood experiences, and socioeconomic status (SES) influence mental health following Hurricane Helene in Western North Carolina. Participants were recruited through flyers distributed throughout Western North Carolina, online posts through social media platforms, and handed out through community resource centers. Data collection involves a two-phase approach: quantitative data obtained through electronic surveys, and qualitative data gathered through optional Zoom interviews for participants who consent to further engage. This study seeks to contribute to a better understanding of how individual factors influence the psychological outcomes of communities impacted by natural disasters, ultimately bettering treatment interventions and promoting advocacy.

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