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Helping children affected by disasters

Wednesday 15 January 2020 in News from the Cancer Centre

Bushfires affecting large swathes of NSW and beyond may result in individuals who are directly, or indirectly, affected having difficulty coping and needing support. Disasters, such as bushfires, may have an impact on the thoughts, feelings and behaviours of young people who are exposed to them.

"Children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable and may need support from their families and others assisting in the recovery process," reports Michael Bowden, Senior Staff Specialist Psychiatrist at The Sydney Children's Hospital Network.

Assistance is available if you need help such as talking to disaster workers in your area or a general practitioner. If it is an energency you should visit the Emergency Department of your local hospital.

Information sheets, that you can access online, have been compiled by Dr Bowden and can be viewed here

They include information for parents on topics such as helping children of all ages after natural disasters and bushfires, coping with media coverage, coping with unconfirmed death, and how young children heal.

There is also information for health care providers, resources for mental health support, and other information that might be helpful.   

Most people are naturally resiliant, it is important to remember, and the help and support of those closest to young people will often help them recover. 

Read Dr Michael Bowden's article Supporting Children Through Disasters, and associated resources, here.

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