This time last year we were facing a time of intense bushfires throughout Australia which we are still recovering from. These bushfires affected over 11 million hectares of bush, forest, and parkland, which was particularly damaging following months of severe drought.

During one of Australia’s worst fire seasons, thousands of firefighters spent months working to slow the spread and control the bushfires. The Black Dog Institute has developed a Fire Support Service to help the firefighters and other emergency service workers take care of their mental health following these traumatic events.

What is the Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service?

Stressful, traumatic events often result in mental health challenges. The Black Dog Institute Fire Support Service is a mental health assessment resource designed to help Emergency Service Workers and their adult family members following a bushfire.

Users can complete an online mental health assessment, providing insight into how they are feeling, and whether they are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress.  The resulting report provides information on symptoms and evidence-based, flexible support options. They also offer a confidential mental health app, and the option of a consultation with their expert clinical team. The Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service is a great resource to begin addressing mental health concerns following a bushfire and start a discussion with your GP.

Who is the Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service for?

Black Dog Institute’s Bushfire Support Service was designed with Emergency Service Workers and their adult family members in mind.

Is there a cost to use the Black Dog Support Service

There is no cost to use the Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service.

How to access the Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service

The Black Dog Institute Bushfire Support Service is freely available at https://bushfiresupport.blackdoginstitute.org.au. The Mental Health assessment can also be completed over the phone on (02) 8627 3314, Monday to Friday. 9am to 5pm. The service is anonymous and confidential.