Managing Your Mental Health During a Natural Disaster

It's important to recognise the trauma being experienced and to support each other through these challenging times.

Here are some tips to help you cope:

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

It's normal to feel a range of emotions during a natural disaster, including fear, anxiety, sadness, and anger. Allow yourself to experience these emotions without judgement. Acknowledging your feelings is the first step towards managing them.

2. Stay Informed, But Limit Exposure

While it's important to stay informed about the situation, constant exposure to news and social media can increase stress and anxiety. It may be helpful to set specific times to check updates and avoid continuous monitoring.

3. Maintain a Routine

Try to maintain a daily routine as much as possible. Structure and predictability can provide a sense of normality and control. Try to include activities that you enjoy and that help you relax if possible.

4. Stay Connected

Reach out to family, friends, and community members. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. If in-person contact is not possible, use phone calls, video chats, or social media.

5. Practise Self-Care

Engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being. This can include:

• Exercise: Physical activity can reduce stress and improve mood.
• Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with balanced meals.
• Sleep: Ensure you get enough rest to help your body recover from stress.
• Relaxation Techniques: Practise deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind.

6. Seek Professional Help

If you find it difficult to cope, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Therapists and counsellors can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively.

7. Help Others

Helping others can give you a sense of purpose and improve your mood. Acts of kindness can create a positive impact on your mental health.

8. Limit Alcohol and Substance Use

Avoid using alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with stress. These substances can worsen anxiety and depression. Instead, focus on healthy coping mechanisms.

10. Stay Hopeful

Focus on positive aspects and maintain hope. Remind yourself that the situation is temporary and that you have the strength to get through it. Engage in activities that bring you joy and comfort.

Resources and Local Support

Protecting your mental health during a natural disaster is essential. By acknowledging your feelings, staying connected, practising self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, you can navigate these challenging times more effectively. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take time for yourself.

If you or anyone needs immediate help, please contact the following:

• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• 13YARN (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line) on 13 92 76
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
• Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
• QLife on 1800 184 527
• Headspace on 1800 650 890

For available local support follow this link:

Emergency Relief