Michael Stevens,Coordinator, Bushfire Recovery Taskforce
Tasmanians affected by the recent bushfires are being encouraged to look after their mental health and wellbeing.
“Natural disasters are traumatic and overwhelming events that can affect everyone in the community,” Bushfire Recovery Taskforce Coordinator Michael Stevens said.
“It is common for people to have a strong reaction following a traumatic event like the recent bushfires around Tasmania, but support is available to help people. Please take care of yourself and look out for those around you.”
Mr Stevens said looking after psychological health and wellbeing was as important as looking after physical health.
“It is really important everyone experiencing challenging reactions to the recent bushfires knows help is available and they are supported by their community,” he said.
“This is why we have arranged for psychologist Dr Rob Gordon to come to Tasmania to give a number of community presentations to people living in bushfire affected areas.”
“Dr Gordon has over 30 years’ experience working with people affected by emergencies and natural disasters, and will share stories, learnings and practical examples that will help people understand their reactions to trauma and grief and come to terms with their situation and their emotions.”
Dr Gordon’s first-hand experience includes the aftermath of the Bali bombings and Christchurch earthquake, Black Saturday, the Canberra firestorm and Tasmania’s 2013 bushfires as well as many other large-scale disasters.
The presentations are free to people affected by the 2019 bushfires and will be held on:
- Wednesday, 20 March 2019 in the Central Highlands at Miena – location to be confirmed (11:30am – 1:30pm) and the Bothwell Town Hall, 19 Alexander Street, Bothwell (3 – 4:30pm)
- Thursday, 21 March 2019 in the Huon Valley at the Geeveston Community Hall, Brady Street, Geeveston (9 – 11am) and the Baden Powell Scout and Guide Hall, Heron Street, Huonville (1 – 3pm).
