Metropolitan
Prepare mentally for a metropolitan disaster by having plans in place and knowledge of what support is available in the event that a disaster may occur.
Recovery is about supporting communities affected by a disaster to rebuild infrastructure and restore social, emotional, and physical wellbeing.
It is a complex process that is dependent on the nature of the disaster. Recovery may last weeks, months or even years.
For most people, the emotional impacts of a disaster may be relatively mild and will reduce over the initial days and weeks with the support of family and friends and others in the community.
It is common for people to experience a range of different responses to a disaster. Some signs that a person may need support are obvious and some signs are less obvious. Signs might be verbal, emotional, cognitive, physical or behavioural.
Below are some examples of signs you may notice in yourself or others.
An important part of communicating with someone is to build trust. This will help the person to feel that there is someone who cares about their wellbeing and is there to listen. If a person feels comfortable talking more openly, it will give a better understanding on how they are coping and if they might benefit from other supports.
The following are some suggested ‘conversation starters’ you could consider using when talking with people who might be showing some of the signs listed earlier:
Keep offering support, even if the person doesn't accept it the first time. If they know there are people around them willing to help, they might be more likely to reach out and access support when they are ready.