GLENDALE, Wis. — Carrie Davis is taking things day by day, almost one month after her Glendale home was severely damaged by historic flooding.
It's a home they had recently purchased and were making their own.
"It's like we're not even homeowners anymore. It's just everything has to be replaced," Davis said.
Seven feet of water filled their basement, knocking out appliances and their offices as well as important studio equipment her husband used. A car in their garage became unusable. But what hurt the most was losing family pictures and memorabilia passed down to them.
Watch: In flooding aftermath, victim and volunteer stress mental health support
"It's going to be difficult to replace those memories that we lost," Davis said.
Flood Recovery Resources: https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/how-to-dispose-of-flood-damaged-items-across-southeast-wisconsin
While they didn't lose their home, the Davis family did lose a lot.
From cleanup to talking with insurance and paying bills, things started to add up for Davis in the weeks that followed.
"It's mentally draining," she said.
That's why Davis sought out therapy through an employee assistance program.
"It does help to talk about these things," Davis said.
"I definitely didn't want to fall into a depression."
Seeking out that support isn't easy, but according to Isabel Stevens, a psychologist and volunteer at the Red Cross, asking for help and someone to listen can make all the difference.
"If you're not taking care of your mental health, it can be paralyzing," Stevens said.
She provided emotional assistance to victims during a comprehensive resource fair on Tuesday.
Previous Coverage: Multi-agency resource centers open this week for those affected by Southeastern Wisconsin floods
"We all need different kinds of help if we are going to be moving forward from something like this," Stevens said.
Stevens advises those impacted to go easy on themselves and not be afraid to accept help or seek it out.
"I don't think any of us can do this alone," she said.
Davis has relied on her family, near and far, to avoid depression.
"I've cried. I've cried many days, but as I stated, I can't let this stop me from living," Davis said.
When asked what keeps her moving forward, Davis said she relies heavily on her prayers and leans on her church family.
Family and therapy are helping her get through the aftermath of this traumatic experience. She hopes others see this and will prioritize their mental health.
"We're showing strength in the midst of chaotic situations," Davis said.
The Red Cross will host two more multi-agency resource centers this week.
Wednesday, Sept. 3 at McCarty Park Pavilion, 2657 S. 78th Street, West Allis (11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.)
Saturday, Sept. 6 at Mary Ryan Boys & Girls Club, 3000 N. Sherman Blvd., Milwaukee (11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.)
More Resources:
Milwaukee County Mobile and Crisis Helpline: (414) 257-7222
Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 988
NAMI (national) Helpline: 1‑800‑950‑NAMI (6264) or nami.org
Click here for resources in the city of Milwaukee: https://city.milwaukee.gov/Health/Services-and-Programs/CHAP/Mental-Health-Resources
This story was reported on-air by Mike Beiermeister and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
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