Mental Health Support through the Bushfire Crisis

The recent bushfires have been unprecedented in their scale and duration.

Mental health impacts of traumatic events such as the bushfire crisis can be huge, and long lasting. People have been forced to flea their homes and fire fighters have been exposed to devastating scenes.

After a traumatic event people are left feeling a range of psychological responses.

If you or anyone you know are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Sleep disturbances
• Distress
• Anxiety
• Panic Attacks
• Intrusive memories
• Feelings of overwhelm for no obvious reason
• Thoughts of self harm
• Frequently being startled and taking a long time to calm down
• Overwhelming sadness
• Feeling numb or detached

Here is where you can get help:

• NSW Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
• Practical assistance is available via the disaster Welfare Line – 1800 018 444
• Beyond Blue – 1800 276 113
• Life Line – 13 11 14
• Red Cross – 1800 733 276

The Federal Government has committed $76 million for free counselling sessions, extra Medicare and tele-health consultations as well as the expansion of headspace.

For further information regarding this initiative, please speak to your GP and obtain a referral to seek counselling.

If you are impacted by this difficult time and would like some face-to-face counselling please contact us. Wishing you and your loved ones all the best during this difficult time.

Sophia