Mental health specialists ready for disaster season

West Moreton Heath is supporting people in the community after the devastating effects of bushfires and drought.

Thanks to joint funding from the State and Federal governments, as part of their $7.7 million Mental Health Recovery program, two clinicians from West Moreton Health Mental Health and Specialised Services are on the ground supporting recovery efforts.

Disaster Recovery Clinicians Tony Welch and Wendy Cadman are already working with their communities to promote and teach skills for good mental health following natural disasters.

Mr Welch is focusing on rural areas in the Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim, while Ms Cadman is supporting people in the Somerset region.

Disaster Recovery Clinicians Tony Welch and Wendy Cadman.
Disaster Recovery Clinicians Tony Welch and Wendy Cadman.

The pair will be working with local government and non-government agencies to provide education, advice, support and training for individuals and families in regions affected by natural disasters.

Mr Welch said the pair took a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, which includes good mental health, life satisfaction and a sense of meaning to one’s life, along with the ability to cope with stressors.

He said they would work with the wider communities, such as Men’s Shed and Country Women’s Association (CWA), to particularly support men in crisis.

Both started their roles in September and their skills were already put to use during a devastating storm that struck Springfield in November.

The pair joined the recovery hub to provide mental health support. They also provided assistance to workers and volunteers in the recovery hub.

“A lot of research has come out showing that it can take 2-3 years before people start having overwhelming stressful reactions. They don’t realise it can be connected back to that trauma,” she said.

“It is about what can the community do and empowering communities. Hopefully we can really do something for rural communities now and in the future.”

Everyone reacts differently to a disaster and these are some reactions to look out for:

  • Emotional reactions such as anxiety, grief, anger and depression
  • Cognitive reactions such as difficulty concentrating, ruminating about the past
  • Physical reactions such as not sleeping well, increased fatigue, changes in diet and weight
  • Social reactions such as isolating oneself, avoiding others and relationship difficulties.
  • Behavioural reactions such as increased alcohol and other drug use, increased gambling and lack of self care

If you notice these reactions in yourself or others, please email WM_MHSS_Disasterrecovery.health.qld.gov.au or if an emergency phone 000 or for Mental Health support call 1300 MHCALL (1300 64 2255).