Information for Individuals
As the impact of an emergency becomes clear, people will have a range of needs that may be addressed by local services. The impact of an emergency can be stressful and exhausting, and people are encouraged to look after themselves in this period. People who readily use formal and informal support from family, friends or other support organisations are generally found to recover better from stressful situations. Access to information and support will aid recovery for most people. Sharing fact sheets on this website with family and friends may help you, and help them to better support you.
People affected by an incident are encouraged to make use of GPs, clergy, 24 hour telephone help lines, or specialist counselling and support services available. Talking it over with others often helps recovery from exposure to traumatic events - prevention is better than cure.
Counselling and health advice
Telephone counselling services
- Lifeline (external link) on 131 114
- Parentline (external link) on 13 22 89
- Kids Helpline (external link) on 1800 55 1800
General health advice
Talk to your local community health service or doctor. You can find your nearest doctor or Community Health Service on the Better Health Channel (external link).
NURSE-ON-CALL (external link) is a phone service that allows you to discuss any health related issue with a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the cost of a local call from anywhere in Victoria. Call 1300 60 60 24.