In response to the devastating bushfires in Victoria, Lifeline has expanded its support services to assist affected communities. The organization has established a temporary support hub at Castlemaine Town Hall, located on Lyttleton Street. This hub will provide free, non-judgemental crisis support to anyone impacted, either directly or indirectly, by the fires. The centre operates daily from 11:00 to 17:00.
Lisa Renato, CEO of Lifeline Loddon Mallee, emphasized the profound losses and uncertainties that individuals, families, and communities face due to the bushfires. “The bushfires have caused significant loss, disruption, and uncertainty to many. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this difficult time. When people are ready, support is available. Lifeline is here to listen,” she stated.
The psychological impact of such disasters can extend beyond the immediate area. Dr. Anna Brooks, Chief Research Officer at Lifeline Australia, pointed out that distress can affect those who are not directly in fire-affected zones. “Whether you are experiencing the fires directly or indirectly, these experiences can be distressing. Feeling overwhelmed in these circumstances is a natural response,” she noted.
Dr. Brooks also addressed the challenges faced by individuals with prior experiences of natural disasters. These events can trigger difficult memories or emotions long after the immediate crisis has passed. “It’s important to know that seeking support is just as valid weeks, months, or even years later. There is no timeline for recovery,” she added.
Lifeline is also reinforcing its dedicated phone line, 13HELP (13 43 57), which provides around-the-clock support for Australians coping with the aftermath of extreme weather events or natural disasters. Alongside these services, Lifeline offers a Natural Disaster Toolkit through its online Support Toolkit. This resource provides practical, evidence-based information and strategies to help individuals manage the mental health impacts associated with natural disasters. Since the onset of the recent bushfires, there has been a notable increase in the utilization of this toolkit.
“Seeing more people use these resources shows the strength of our communities in reaching out for support and looking after one another,” Dr. Brooks remarked.
For those feeling overwhelmed or in need of support, Lifeline encourages connections in the way that feels most comfortable. Individuals can reach out by calling Lifeline at 13 11 14, texting 0477 131 114, or chatting online at www.lifeline.org.au.
Founded over 60 years ago, Lifeline has been committed to providing free and confidential crisis support. Trained crisis supporters are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, listening without judgement to those in need. With expectations to respond to over 1.4 million requests for support this year, Lifeline aims to create an average of 120 safety plans daily to assist individuals experiencing suicidal ideation.
For further updates and information, visit Lifeline’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lifelinelm/ or access the Natural Disaster Toolkit directly at https://ll.org.au/natural-disasters.
