Coping with bushfires

[Sophie_M]

Beyond Blue would like all individuals accessing our online forums in relation to Australia’s bushfire crisis to know that we are here for them.

If you’re feeling worried, we want you to know that it’s okay and you are not alone.

The impacts of this crisis will be ongoing and everyone will have different experiences, thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Even if you haven't been directly affected by these fires you may still feel sad, overwhelmed, stressed and upset.

We hope that you will use this safe, understanding space to talk, share and support one another on a united front.

It can be difficult to know what to say in times like these.

The forum community have been engaging in discussions that you may find helpful: Are you managing to be ok with all these dreadful bushfires?

You may wish to share what you are doing to help cope, or simply to share your experience with others.

Beyond Blue has developed a dedicated resource about bushfires and mental health, including practical advice about dealing with the emotional impact of bushfires, information about the signs and symptoms of emotional distress, tips for supporting children and young people, and links to several useful websites.

Taking care of yourself:

• Limit your exposure to social media – it’s okay to have a break and it’s important you make sure you’re not becoming overwhelmed.
• Speak with our friendly forum community about how you’re feeling
• Set realistic goals that keep you motivated, but don't take on too much (most people in this situation talk of recovery as a journey not a sprint)
• Give yourself time

Seeking help when you are in a bushfire affected area:

• Follow the advice of your local state fire services if you are in a bushfire affected area.
  State fire services:
  NSW RFS
  QLD RFS
  VIC
  SA
  TAS
  NT
  WA
  ACT

• If you require emergency support please contact 000

As a community, let’s help one another through sharing and connecting during this difficult time. This could be by listing links to articles or resources you have found helpful, tips for what is working to help you manage or sharing your thoughts, feelings or experience related to the bushfire crisis.  

Whatever it may be, we're here. 

[blondguy]

Hello Ackie

sharing your pain is tough to do Ackie...You are very strong....If you wish to talk...we are here and listening...even if you want to discuss the smoke inhalation you are always welcome

Bega, Nowra and Eden are a beautiful part of our country albeit a different place now

my kind thoughts and respect....Paul

[quirkywords]

Ackie

Welcome to the forum.

Thanks for sharing your experience on this post. I came from a small village near some of the places you mentioned. I lost a lot and have moved to the city. It is hard being around people who don't understand .

Feel free to post here as often as you like. I have not been back since the beginning of Jan and not sure I can go back. I miss my friends.

I keep writing as people are so supportive here.

Take care Ackie

Quirky

[quirkywords]

Hello everyone,

I was wondering how everyone is going. Now corona is in the news people seem to have forgotten the fire.

There are many like me who cant forget.

I have a friend who was evacuated 3 times live in fear for weeks and now cant leave the house.

this is a safe place to be honest and share.

However you are feeling, feel free to post here.There is support.

Quirky

[Birdy77]

Thank you so much for your post Quirky.

I know you can't forget.

I haven't forgotten either.

You are not alone, we who lived through the terror will never forget.

I know you have lost so much, and it must be difficult to know where to start to rebuild your lives.

I drive through the fireground a couple of weeks ago, needed to get to Moruya for an appointment. It was a somber journey i am sure you lnkw what i mean.

I have felt it's so difficult to get back to "normal" (whatever that is) since what we went through over the summer.

I am trying, but it's slow progress.

I am finding it hard to leave the house unless i need to.

Comes in handy with the caronavirus i guess?!

Wishing wellness for you and all.

🌻birdy

[Doolhof]

Dear Birdy, Quirky and All,

My thoughts are with you as you continue to live with the trauma of the bushfires.

I can't say I understand as I have not been in your shoes, but I do care.

On Facebook I see photos of the region I grew up in which has been devastated by fires. That affects me.

For you to drive through or see areas that were once home to you and how you must feel, I can't comprehend.

When we are experiencing trauma, depression, mental health issues, confusion or are just plan stuck and don't know what to do, it can be hard to see the world move on.

Please know people do care. I care for you all. I don't know how to respond to your hurt.

You are in my thoughts, kindest regards from Dools

[Birdy77]

You are a really beautiful and special person Dools.

[Doolhof]

Thank you Birdy, I appreciate your kind words.

There have been many times where yourself and others have been of invaluable support to me.

I am so very appreciative of the care, help and assistance I have received here. I sometimes wonder how I would have managed without the support I have received.

Hugs to you. At least the virtual hugs are safe!

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Quirky, Dools, lovely birdy & all,

I think Dools has written such a loving, tender, & compassionate response that I don’t really have much to add.

She’s right, you’re cared for, appreciated and valued here.

We are listening if you ever want to unload any feelings here...

Warm hugs to anyone who likes them xoxo

[quirkywords]

Thanks Dools, pepper , Indy and everyone reading,

it is a strange year.

i have compassion for businesses affected by the corona. IRC’s, people who are unemployed, people who maybe homeless.

i have compassion for everyone.

quirky

[Elizabeth CP]

I think it is hard for people to understand what it is like unless you have been directly affected by the fires & then each person will react differently. This means people are so focused on Corona Virus they forget about the fires & their impact. I hope you are getting the support you need Quirky during this difficult time.