Support for Staff

The impact of a natural disaster can be stressful and exhausting, and people are encouraged to look after themselves and their wellbeing.

To support each other we can:

• be aware of the different ways that people react and respect those differences
• be kind to each other – be gentle and understanding as people may not be operating at their best
• give yourself, and others, time and try to maintain routines of rest, relaxation and exercise.

In time, common reactions tend to disappear. However, if you find you need support in dealing with the effects, speaking with a counsellor can help.

• Supporting Recovery for Staff (PDF - 84Kb) - includes information about accessing support from allied health professionals, GPs and Community Health Centres.
• Self Care (PDF - 103Kb)
• Resilience and Self Care (Word - 58Kb) - recovery from a disaster such as the 2009 Victorian Bushfires can take months and sometimes years. The Resilience and self care document for early childhood professionals and school staff includes information about looking after your physical and mental wellbeing. Additionally, information is available about when and how to seek professional help.

Counselling services

• DEECD Employee Assistance Program - 1800 337 068 - a short term, solution focused and strictly confidential counselling service (provided by Converge International) of up to four sessions that DEECD funds as part of its commitment to the health, safety and wellbeing of its staff
• Lifeline - for additional telephone counselling services, contact Lifeline on 131 114 - a 24 hour telephone counselling service that provides care in times of crisis.