Coping with the stress of Tropical Cyclone Alfred

Extreme weather events have a big impact on homes and communities. But they can also take a huge toll on your mental health and wellbeing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, scared or anxious, you're not alone.

It can be particularly hard to cope when you've experienced a past natural disaster. If you were affected by the 2022 floods, this cyclone will likely bring up a lot of tough memories. We've got some resources below to help you keep calm during this stressful situation. You'll also find practical strategies for coping with stress during disasters. Plus, information on where to find disaster relief support services in Australia.

For up-to-date information and preparation advice, visit NSW SES or QLD SES. Download the Hazards Near Me app for real-time emergency warnings for extreme weather events in NSW. If you're in QLD, you can access help via the Emergency+ and SES Assistance QLD apps, and also stay up to date using the QLD disaster dashboard.

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Disaster relief support services in Australia

Experiencing natural disasters can be a really stressful time. We’ve compiled a list of Australian disaster relief support services to help you in times of need.

Need to talk right now?

Chat with a qualified counsellor at Kids Helpline. It's free, confidential and available 24/7.

how to deal with the stress of a bushfire flood earthquake or cyclone

How to deal with the stress of bushfires, floods, earthquakes and cyclones

While natural disasters are out of your control, there are things you can do to feel better and to get help.

Girl with her head in her hands on the street

Experiencing trauma

Learn more about what a traumatic experience is, what are some common responses to trauma, and get some tips on how to cope.

Girl looking at water

Acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorders

Learn to look for the signs of acute stress and PTSD, and if you think you suffer from either, it’s probably a good idea to seek support from a mental health professional.

01_title_how to manage your anxiety

How to manage anxiety and stress

It’s totally normal to feel stressed or anxious from time to time, but there’s lots of things you can do to feel a bit better. Learn how to deal with anxiety here.

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Domestic violence support services in Australia

If you’re experiencing domestic violence, there are services available to help you regardless of where you live in Australia.

Recovering from floods

Watch stories of recovery and resilience from young people who experienced the 2022 floods. Produced and published by Headspace.

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Practical ways to cope with climate anxiety

Hearing about climate change can be distressing. Here are some tips on how to cope.

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        We acknowledge the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. We recognise connection to Country as integral to health and wellbeing.

        We acknowledge people with lived experience of mental ill-health and recovery and the experience of people who have been carers, families, or supporters.

        ReachOut values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

              Aboriginal flagTorres Strait islander flagRainbow flagAustralian flag

              We acknowledge the traditional owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, and to Elders past and present. We recognise connection to Country as integral to health and wellbeing.

              We acknowledge people with lived experience of mental ill-health and recovery and the experience of people who have been carers, families, or supporters.

              ReachOut values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.

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