Going through a disaster like a bushfire, flood or drought takes a toll on all of us and coping is not always easy​. It's normal to feel emotional in a range of ways from feeling a bit shaky and confused to being overwhelmed with sadness or anger - even long after the event.

Taking time for a few calming, deeper than usual breaths to notice how we are feeling and/or connecting with our families and loved ones to let them know how we are doing can be of huge benefit to our emotional health. Traumatic events affect each of us differently, and we all need a bit of support from time-to-time. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is free help available.

Find out more about mental health support services after a disaster:

Counselling services

Regional Access (24 hours)

Free professional telephone and online counselling for people 15 years and older living or working in regional South Australia.

Phone 1300 032 186 for immediate support or get online support from Regional Access online counselling

Lifeline (24 hours)

Phone 13 11 14 for immediate support
Lifeline online counselling (6.30 to 11.30 pm, South Australian time)

Kids Helpline (24 hours)

Free counselling for people 5 to 25.

Phone 1800 55 1800 or get help online from Kids Helpline online counselling

Family and Business Support (FaBS) Program

PIRSA's Family and Business Support (FaBS) Program is a group of people offering support during difficult situations such as drought, bushfire and other adverse events. FaBS mentors provide free, informal advice and can connect you to services such as:

  • financial counselling
  • local health networks
  • emotional wellbeing and counselling services
  • government and non-government assistance
  • community organisations and donations.

To access the program, contact the PIRSA Recovery Team:

PIRSA Recovery Hotline: 1800 931 314
Email: PIRSA.drought@sa.gov.au

Mental health resources for children

Emergencies and disasters are extremely stressful and it is normal for children, even infants, to feel overwhelmed. Emerging Minds has developed a Community Trauma Toolkit to help adults and children understand the impacts of disaster and how to help lessen these impacts.