Salvos Address Impact of Natural Disasters

The Salvation Army has developed a website and online film for people affected by natural disasters.

And the Salvos are urging Australians affected by natural disasters, which have
devastated communities over the summer, to look after their mental health – warning that even people who were lucky to escape damage could be impacted by trauma.

“For those people in affected areas, the focus right now will be on assisting people as they recover and get back on their feet,” the Salvation Army’s Major Bruce Harmer said.

“But somewhere down the track, the emotions associated with trauma could surface.

“We want to let people know that help is available.”

Still Standing is a website and film – available to view online – developed by The Salvation Army to provide people affected by natural disasters with information from experts who can assist in long-term recovery.

Experts include Australians who have suffered great loss and who have recovered from previous natural disasters, as well as medical practitioners who specialise in disaster recovery.

The website also includes special information for helping children to understand and cope in hard times.

Salvation Army counsellors warn that even those not directly affected by the recent
cyclone, storms, flooding and fires could also be impacted – as the situation could trigger trauma and emotions from previous disasters that haven’t yet been dealt with.

“We want to let people know that it’s never too late to seek help,” Major Harmer said.

“For some people, watching these disasters unfold on television will bring back painful
memories and emotions. We want to say to those people that help is still available.”