Lived Experience Forum

[Fizz]

As the anniversary of the bushfires approaches, clinical psychologist Rob Gordon said many people would begin to reflect and even re-experience thoughts, feelings and events that occurred at the time of the disaster, or in the days or weeks that followed.

Dr Gordon said it was important to mark the occasion in some way to help gain control and heal past trauma.

"Have a think about what your inclination is, whether you want to be with people, community, family or have a quiet time and just put a flower on the remnants of your house," Dr Gordon said.

"All trauma and disasters involve loss of control, a sense of helplessness. Accepting the loss is part of that."

In a disaster the whole community got hurt, Dr Gordon said, and it was the community that was the best resource in moving forward.

Full article here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-12-28/black-summer-bushfire-survivors-rebuild-twelve-months-on/1301...