Supporting Mental Health Through Cyclone Alfred
The latest estimate from the BOM is that Cyclone Alfred will most likely make landfall around midday tomorrow with heavy rain and strong winds reaching down into the northern parts of NSW.
Our thoughts are with all those affected by its arrival, especially those in NSW.
While immediate attention is obviously on preparing for and weathering the immediate impacts of wind, rain and potential flooding, it’s important to be aware of the mental health impacts of natural disasters. We know from the 2022 Lismore floods that the impact on mental health can have a deep effect and perhaps not surface for years.
Emma Schubert, a psychologist and the Clinical Service Manager for Head to Health based at Southern Cross University spoke in a “Talking Lismore” podcast last week about what PTSD signs people should look out for and how to have a conversation with someone about getting help.
“Flood trauma doesn’t have a timeframe,” Emma says, citing poor sleep, appetite and emotional regulation as common signs.
Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness
For anyone experiencing anxiety related to natural disasters, Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) is an approach that can help. P-CEP helps to match emergency planning to the supports people need for their health and safety in emergencies. Queenslanders with Disability (QDN)have some good resources on this here including a workbook and videos.
At its core is a 4-step process to help increase emergency preparedness:
- Identify your strengths and support needs in everyday life
- Know your level of emergency preparedness and learn about your disaster risk
- Plan for how you will manage your support needs in the event of an emergency
- Communicate your plan with the people in your support network and address the gaps through collaboration.
Getting help now and into the future
The Australian Government also has a dedicated page for Cyclone Alfred including excellent resources with links to 24/7 support lines to assist in supporting the physical and mental health of those affected by Cyclone Alfred. Visit the website.
Head to Health Lismore is a bulk-billed mental health support service based at Southern Cross University who continue to support those affected by the 2022 floods. You can call them directly on 0482 161 784 or 1800 595 212 or visit their website at https://headtohealthnc.org.au/
Please support each other and stay safe.