In light of recent events, I thought it appropriate to share some tips in regards to supporting those who are experiencing fire-related trauma.
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Most importantly, we must remember that trauma presents differently from person to person.
There is no 'normal' when it comes to processing and recovering from traumatic events.
For some people, trauma presents itself quite soon after the event whereas for others, signs of mental health decline may only be seen months or even years later.
Some of the more immediate responses to trauma include flashbacks, sleep disturbances, severe anxiety, feelings of numbness, increased irritability and anger, total withdrawal and avoidance.
Further along the road people often experience fatigue and exhaustion, feelings of hopelessness and overwhelm, feelings of isolation and disconnection. Some also have suicidal thoughts.
Traumatised locals might be experiencing fear, anger, regret, guilt, shock and deep sadness.
They could be dealing with all the 'what ifs?'.
For some the fires may have also brought on positives including gratitude, hope and resilience. The only thing we know without any doubt is that no two cases of trauma are ever the same.
Some of the best ways to support people through these events include; giving them personal space to feel their feelings, listening when they are willing to talk, treating them as an individual with unique circumstances, avoiding judging or shaming them for their behaviour, not assuming how they are feeling or what they are needing and telling them you're there for them when they are ready.
Be mindful also that our locals are survivors, not victims. A survivor may feel empowered but being labelled a victim can keep people stuck.
Local counsellors are available to assist fire survivors and any members of our RFS who have so bravely fought for our towns and villages.
Free counselling is available with the following providers;
She Counselling, Mittagong - Erica Rundle
5 free sessions - women over the age of 18
shecounselling.com.au, info@shecounselling.com.au, 0412 707 242
Highlands Holistic Art Therapy & Counselling, Mittagong - Linda Burgess
3 free sessions - all welcome
highlandsholistic.com.au, linda@highlandsholistic.com.au, 0438 400 446
Nest Psychotherapy & Counselling, Picton - Tracy Proud
4 free sessions - anyone over 16 particularly those from the LGBTQIA community
nestcounselling.com.au, hello@nestcounselling.com.au, 0484 223 042
Lindy Dowe Counselling and Psychotherapy, Bowral - Lindy Dowe
4 free sessions - all welcome particularly families and parents of children with special needs
lindydowe.com.au, lindy.dowe@gmail.com, 0417 267 145
Credence Counselling, Bowral - Nerida Little
4 free sessions - all welcome
credencecounselling.com.au, credencecounselling@gmail.com, 0409 837 714
Erica is a Women's Health Counsellor in private practice in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. You can read more about her work using the She Counselling contacts above. You can also reach her via socials @shecounselling.
