Practical and emotional support for bushfire affected communities
The Life in Mind team at Everymind has worked with the suicide prevention and mental health sectors, and in collaboration with the National Mental Health Commission, to provide a comprehensive list of resources to support bushfire affected communities and the general public.
Bushfires can have a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of affected communities and individuals.
The impact may also be felt by people who are not directly affected by bushfire activity, but may have experienced previous trauma related to a natural disaster, have loved ones in affected areas or are witnessing traumatic events through media coverage and social media.
There is a range of practical and emotional resources available for people who wish to seek support due to the impact of bushfires.
For people who are currently in areas that are being impacted by bushfire activity, The Red Cross provides on the ground mental health support. Volunteers can be located in evacuation centres and recovery hubs and can provide psychological first aid to those who are seeking support.
For people who are not currently accessing an evacuation centre or recovery hub, a list of crisis support telephone lines are listed below.
Life After Bushfires
A new digital mental health resources from SANE Australia.
The resource was primarily designed to help New South Wales South Coast residents to focus on their mental wellbeing as part of their bushfire recovery.
Life After Bushfires includes real stories from local residents affected by complex mental health issues, and provides information, tailored support services and connection.
National Crisis Support Numbers
If you or someone you know has been affected by the bushfires and needs some extra support, we encourage you to reach out and access the services available.
If you, or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 000 or visit your nearest hospital.
Australian Government Bushfire Disaster Assistance
Support for people directly affected by the bushfires.
If you need support please call 180 22 66 or via link Department of Human Services.
Mental Health Support For Australians Affected By The 2019 20 Bushfires Fact Sheet
Lifeline Bushfire Recovery Line 13 43 57
National crisis support numbers for individuals and communities:
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
Kids Help Line: 1800 551 800
Mensline Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Disaster Welfare Assistance Line: 1800 018 444
GriefLine: 1300 845 745