HEALTH ADVICE AND SUPPORT
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NSW Health Advice
Natural disasters and traumatic events impact much more than
just the physical environment. They can have a profound effect on the mental
health and well-being of affected communities.
Looking after yourself, family, neighbours and friends is
important during any emergency and recovery from these latest bushfires will
take some time.
NSW Health is providing additional staff and resources in
impacted rural and regional communities, and their support will include advice
and pathways to care for people who need specialist assistance.
Please visit the NSW Health website for information.
Mental health support
It's completely normal to experience a range of emotions after a fire, including anxiety, forgetfulness, sleep disturbance and more.
Having someone to listen to and support you through this is very important.
Check in on your friends and neighbours, and if you or someone you know needs help, reach out.
The following are free services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week:
- Mental Health Line – 1800 011 511
- Lifeline Bushfire Recovery Line - 13 43 57
- Mensline – 1300 789 978
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
- Beyondblue – 1300 22 4636
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call 000.
Some tips on managing your recovery include:
- Spend time with family and friends
- Try to get back into a routine
- Continue a healthy lifestyle (eating, sleeping, exercise)
- Take time out but don't isolate yourself
- Express your feelings in your own way
- Accept help when it is offered
- Limit the amount of media coverage you are exposed to
- Don't expect to have all the answers
- Understand you are not alone in your experience.
Keep checking in with your friends and neighbours and looking out for each other.
Free Counselling
If you live in or have visited a bushfire-affected region, you can
access up to 10 free counselling sessions to support you through any immediate
trauma or crisis. You can organise counselling sessions at:
For more information on mental health support services, including Medicare rebate information, visit the Service NSW Guide.
Recovery Support Services
If you have been affected by bushfires, local Recovery Support Services will help you in your recovery journey by providing personalised, long-term support. Recovery Support Services are free.
Find your nearest Recovery Support Service provider 
here.
Fact sheets
Mental Health Support - How are you going? (pdf)
Mental Health Support - Let's talk (pdf)