Providing psychological services to people affected by bushfires
Channel: ANU TV
Date: 07/10/2020

The recent bushfires have affected thousands of people across regional and rural Australia. In their wake, the bushfires have exacted enormous loss – of life, property, community, dignity and hope. Moreover, exposure to the fires and their smoke have caused untold health problems and concerns. The traumatic impact of the fires and smoke has been significant and calls for a timely and concerted response from healthcare professions to aid in the recovery of people and the rebuilding of their communities.
Emergency agencies such as the Red Cross have mobilized initial support and psychological first aid through their established channels and networks.
In coming weeks and months, psychologists and other mental health professionals will be asked to provide a second wave of support, including the treatment of mental ill-health related to the impact of the fires. Providers in urban areas may wish to offer treatment to people living in regional, rural and remote areas.
The purpose of this webinar is to help mobilise and prepare mental health workers across Australia to provide this second wave of support. It will provide an introduction to key areas of practice related to supporting people impacted by the bushfires. Participants will be able to assess their learning needs and find out about additional CPD that they can undertake in coming weeks to prepare themselves for this work.
On completion of this webinar, participants will have introductory knowledge of:
• Strategies for adjusting engagement, assessment and interventions to best meet the needs of the diverse populations who have been impacted by the fires
• The broader health impacts of bushfire exposure and optimal ways to collaborate with General Practitioners in this area of work
• Culturally safe practice
• Use of videoconferencing in clinical practice