## Rebuilding in the Shadows: The Emotional Toll of Hurricane Helene in NC
A month after Hurricane Helene ravaged parts of the southeastern United States, communities in western North Carolina are still struggling to recover.
Many mountain towns and villages remain without essential services like water, power, and reliable transportation. While the focus is on physical restoration, the emotional impact of the storm is immense.
“While physical healing can be tangible, processing emotional trauma can be more complex,” says licensed counselor Rachael Chatham. She emphasizes the common struggle: “People who are used to being self-reliant might find it hard to admit they need support.”
The storm has left people like Allison and Chris Jennings, who run a nonprofit kitchen in Asheville, feeling constantly anxious. The storm flooded their building and, having experienced major floods before, fear now lingers with each heavy rainfall.
For John Zara and his family in Swannanoa, the storm brought more than just physical destruction. It destroyed their home, belongings, and income. “It’s overwhelming to deal with both the loss of your home and the financial strain,” Zara expresses.
Their story is a stark reminder that the recovery process is multifaceted.
Thankfully, hope shines through in the form of community support. Josh Copus, an artist and business owner, was overwhelmed by the outpouring of help from strangers who volunteered to help him salvage his hotel.
Communities are even banding together to provide essential services like providing meals. Chefs like Ashleigh Shanti are turning donated food into nourishment for those in need. This collective effort exemplifies the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
Headlines like “Unless you’ve been through it, you can’t understand” highlight the deep impact the storm has had on this community. Yet, amidst the challenge, the spirit of resilience and community support offers a glimmer of hope.
