Exploring the roles of childhood trauma, psychological distress, and resource use in the context of a climate change-induced disaster

Aims: This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between childhood trauma and psychological distress (i.e., depression and anxiety symptoms) and the moderating role of resource use during and after the deadliest wildfire in California among a sample of college students. Methods: Participants (N = 473) completed well-validated measures six months after the 2018 Camp Fire exploring retrospective childhood trauma, current psychological distress, and resource use during and after the fire. Results: Multiple regression and moderation analyses revealed that greater exposure to childhood trauma predicted increased depression and anxiety symptoms following the fire. However, using community-based (off-campus) mental health services during and after the fire buffered the effects of childhood trauma on depression and anxiety symptoms. Conclusion: Youth exposed to childhood trauma are more susceptible to depression and anxiety symptoms post-disaster, yet using community-based mental health services may protect against the development of aggravated symptoms with greater childhood trauma.