FOR URGENT ASSISTANCE
If you are experiencing severe distress or suicidal thoughts, please contact the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, Lifeline on 131 114 or attend your nearest emergency department for immediate support.
Lifeline (www.lifeline.org.au) also has a website with additional information that individuals may find helpful. Go Gentle Australia (www.gogentleaustralia.org.au) also provides a list of numbers and resources that you may find helpful, including the option for a call back service as well as online counselling options.
WHILE YOU ARE WAITING FOR AN APPOINTMENT
There are many online resources available that can provide you with information and support while you are awaiting an appointment with a local psychologist.
Beyond Blue (www.beyondblue.org.au) provides a wealth of knowledge about depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. They have a telephone hotline and online forums to provide support while awaiting face to face help.
For young people, Kidshelpline (www.kidshelpline.com.au) provides information for children as young as five years of age. There is also information for parents and schools pertaining to children and adolescents, including a phone helpline and information online.
BUSHFIRE INFORMATION
Our community has been through a very challenging time with the current bush fire season. Most of us have never experienced such devastation and hopefully will never have to endure such devastation again in our life times. Recovery is going to take time, possibly months and in some cases years.
It is important to consider that most people will feel emotional exhaustion in the immediate aftermath of these bush fires. It has been a challenging time for most of our community, in particular for those that have lost homes, live stock or other property. Most of us know someone who has been directly impacted. Most of us will naturally recover from this emergency within weeks to months. However, some will take longer and may require psychological support to help process events. If you are struggling, please reach out for support.
Below are some resources compiled to help ease the recovery process:
COUNSELLING SERVICES
Broulee Psychology is able to provide an additional 10 medicare rebated sessions per calendar under the Mental Health Care Plan with a referral from your GP. For more information, please see our fees and rebates page.
Below are some helpful fact sheets with more information:
Looking after your mental health in the aftermath of bushfires: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/bushfires-and-mental-health/
Information for parents and caregivers: https://www.psychology.org.au/getmedia/9cd44a11-cdcd-41e6-bd13-70a704716b54/Helping-children-affected-bushfires.pdf
COVID-19 INFORMATION
We are currently experiencing an unprecedented and stressful time. Managing our mental health is more important now than ever. Feelings of worry and stress can be expected during such an event but there are things that you can do to help yourself and those around you to cope.
Limit Media Coverage
Constant media coverage will likely maintain a heightened state of anxiety and stress. Try to minimise media exposure and focus only on reputable and reliable sources of information. Trusted sources include The World Health Organisation and the Australian Government’s health alert.
Take reasonable precautions
Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. Reduce outings and practice social distancing. Seek medical assistance if you are feeling unwell.
Don’t forget the self-care
Make sure you are looking after yourself. This may include: maintaining social connections (even if online or via telephone), engaging in enjoyable activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practising relaxation.
For more information on coping with anxiety associated with Coronavirus, please click
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