Coping after a Natural Disaster

Coping After a Natural Disaster

Natural disasters can have lasting impacts on individuals, families, and communities. Whether you’ve experienced a cyclone, flood, bushfire, or storm, recovering takes time. We've come up with a few pointers and things to consider about how to look after yourself and others aorund you. 

️ Acknowledge how you feel and the impact

• Many people reported noticing similarities between our recent cyclone and flooding events to COVID-19. Our bodies remember and store images, feelings, and sensations from traumatic events and these can be triggered or re-experienced in the same way when the network of experiences in our brains are connected. The missing toilet-paper was definitely bringing up flashbacks to COVID times, and maybe brings about panic-buying behaviours we saw.

• Validate your experience instead of dismissing it or being hard on yourself. Being compassionate to yourself is not the same as "wallowing" or self-pity. You can be kind and gentle, paired with hopefuly and encouraging, such as "I feel quite overwhelmed and have no energy, but this won't last forever and I'll do what I can today". 

️ Connect with loved ones and community

• Feeling isolated, couped up or lonely during a natural disaster is to be expected when we are out of our usual routines. 

• Find alternative ways to connect - if you're flooded in, reach out to a neighbour, or if you have no internet, write a letter or find a way to help someone else.

• Bringing together community through volunteering, sharing resources or checking in on those who are vulnerable can make the experience meaningful or reduce feelings of uselessness. 

✔️️ Take Care of Your Mental Health

• It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even numb after a disaster or traumatic event.

• Talk to someone you trust about your experience—whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional.

• Take things one step at a time and avoid putting pressure on yourself to “bounce back” immediately.

Emotional Recovery & Mental Wellbeing

💙 Recognizing Signs of Stress & Trauma

It’s common to experience shock, sadness, difficulty sleeping, and irritability in the aftermath of a disaster. If these feelings persist or interfere with daily life, consider reaching out for professional support.

💡 Coping Strategies

• Stick to a routine as much as possible—it helps restore a sense of normality.

• Engage in activities that bring comfort, such as listening to music, journaling, or gentle exercise.

• Limit exposure to distressing news coverage; such as only 1 hour a day or twice a day for 15 mins.

• Seek help early if you’re struggling—mental health support is available.

Where to Find Help

📞 Crisis & Support Services

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24/7 crisis support)

• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 (mental health support)

• QLD Mental Health Services – 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255)

🏠 Financial & Housing Assistance

• Queensland Government Disaster Recovery Assistance – Visit qld.gov.au/disaster

• Centrelink Disaster Relief Payments – Call 180 22 66

Rebuilding & Moving Forward

Recovery is a journey that looks different for everyone. Be kind to yourself, acknowledge small victories, and reach out for help when needed.

For ongoing updates, visit qld.gov.au/disaster.

Stay safe, and remember—you are not alone. 💙

Mindset Health Hub