The Australian Government is providing mental health support for individuals, families and emergency services workers affected by the bushfires including up to 10 free counselling sessions if you were affected by the bushfires to support you through the immediate trauma and crisis.

If you or someone you know is in need of support during and after a bushfire, please reach out. Speak to your GP, or regular health care provider.

Mental health teams are being deployed across NSW, to support fire-affected communities.

Learn more at www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/resources/Pages/bushfire-mental-health-support.aspx

Additional support is available on:

• Lifeline – 13 43 57 | www.lifeline.org.au
• Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 | www.beyondblue.org.au
• Mensline – 1300 789 9978 | www.mensline.org.au
• Kids Helpline – 1800 551800 | www.kidshelpline.com.au
• Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511

Bushfire Response Resource Pack

Beyond Blue has developed a resource pack with educators in mind, and it also includes information suitable for parents, families, children, young people and community members.

It is for communities both directly and indirectly affected – including those from regions that have been severely affected, those who have had children and young people who were evacuated, those who will be looking after children who were relocated, those who are affected by smoke and reduction in air quality, and those who observed the media coverage and are wondering what they can do to help.

Children and young people can develop trauma-related mental health issues even when not directly exposed to the bushfires. These events may bring back past traumatic experiences. Visit https://beyou.edu.au/bushfires-response for more information.