Flooding takes a toll on mental health. Here's how Quebecers can help each other cope

Lou Borrelli is still working on clearing out his soaked basement, picking through the destroyed remains of once meaningful belongings. 

"It's been pretty lousy, you know …  all these sentimental things are garbage now," he said. 

Borrelli's home in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Que., in which he's lived since the 80s, was among those impacted by severe flooding after last week's record-breaking downpour — remnants of tropical storm Debby. 

Like many of his neighbours on Roosevelt Street, Borrelli's basement flooded with more than two feet of water, destroying photos and books he can never replace — but will never forget. 

"I was looking at the stuff and I said, 'Ok, they're in here now,'" said the 72-year-old, tapping the side of his head. 

Something making the situation a little easier, he says, is the help he's been receiving from friends, family and his local community.  

"My neighbour … he was here in the crawl space yesterday helping out on his knees," Borrelli said. 

"They've been very helpful, all the neighbours."

According to the latest update from Quebec's Public Security Ministry, 86 municipalities were affected by the intense storm, which also led to widespread road damage and landslides across southern Quebec.

On Wednesday in Ste-Julienne, Que., Public Security Minister François Bonnardel said in all 2,300 residences were flooded and about 460 residents evacuated from their homes. He said 53 roads are still damaged and 348 homes are still inaccessible.

"I know it has been very difficult for those people who have lost a lot during the weekend," Bonnardel told reporters after a meeting with area mayors. 

He said that if all goes well Highway 13 in Dorval, Que., could be reopened tomorrow. 

Borrelli has kept a positive attitude throughout this experience, but experts say that's difficult to do. 

"The destruction of someone's home is a very, very serious disruption to someone's health and well-being," said Joe Flanders, a psychologist and assistant professor in psychology at McGill University.