Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Flood Support Information

It’s been nearly two weeks since Echuca Moama and surrounding communities have been responding to flood events that have had a significant impact on most of Rochester and parts of Echuca Moama.

We know that, while we are still dealing with this event, the implications have been varied for members of our communities. For those people affected by the flooding of the Campaspe River, the impact was as swift as it was devastating. Alternatively, for many in parts of Echuca Moama, it has been described as more of a 'slow burn'. Some people are still frantically trying to save their homes from the rising waters while others are now faced with the prospect of cleaning up the resultant mess. To make matters more difficult, there has been uncertainty regarding peak river levels and dates. Some people in our communities have been preparing for a second flood event that could potentially impact their properties.

The response from our community in general has been nothing short of remarkable and should not be overlooked. Many of our current and past students of St Joseph’s College have worked extremely hard to assist people to prepare and protect their homes against flood water. The current circumstances are especially challenging for our students who, coming off the back of two years of periodic lockdowns, are again faced with the challenges of school closures and alternative learning arrangements. Spare a thought for our Year 12 students who were forced to forgo their end of school celebrations. They chose instead to coordinate and participate in a response to the flood event, a testament to their character.

You may have noticed what could almost be described as a sense of euphoria in the community response to the flood event. People have channelled adrenaline, not only as a motivating factor, but as a coping mechanism. As the event draws on, some of this is starting to give way to a myriad of feelings and emotions. People might start to experience frustration, anger, confusion, uncertainty or feelings of helplessness. This is a perfectly normal response to an ongoing challenging situation. It is during this time that it is most important to consider our own self-care to avoid burnout and manage our emotional and mental health.

As communities move toward a recovery phase, common reactions might include increases in stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms. The following are recommendations you may consider in assisting with coping.

Nurture and maintain important relationships - Practice being kind and gracious towards loved ones, family and friends. While people may be experiencing similar circumstances and situations, the way individuals process and react to that experience may be varied.
Ensure adequate rest - It is not unusual for sleep patterns to be disrupted during and after challenging or traumatic events. You may have difficulty falling asleep or find yourself waking up throughout the night. If you have trouble sleeping, only go to bed when you are ready to sleep, avoid using cell phones or laptops in bed, and avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol at least one hour before going to bed. If you wake up and can’t fall back to sleep, try writing down what’s on your mind then switch your thinking to something pleasant or enjoyable.
Take a break from the news - You may benefit from limiting exposure to images of the disaster. Watching or reading news about the event over and over again may only increase your stress.
Establish and maintain some routine - Try to eat meals at regular times. Include a positive or fun activity in your schedule that you can look forward to each day or week. Schedule exercise into your daily routine as well, if possible. If you are inclined, remember to practice calming exercises such as meditation or prayer.
Take care of your physical health and wellbeing - Remember to eat properly, including eating nutritious meals. Avoid excessive sugary or fatty foods, excessive alcohol and other substances. If you are a smoker, try to limit your intake, as with caffeine as these things can add to stress. Incorporate exercise into your routine.
Continue to Connect with Community – Be careful not to isolate yourself. Connect with community or sporting groups. Check in on friends, neighbours and work colleagues and don’t be afraid to ask somebody a simple “are you ok?”.
Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help – Whether it is physical/practical help or emotional support, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our community has shown a preparedness to 'be there' for one another. If you feel that you, a loved one or friend needs support, please speak up.

Supporting Young People

Be particularly considerate when dealing with young people, who may be extra sensitive to the impact of the floods. Many children will show some level of distress. This might include increased worries, trouble sleeping, and changes in mood and concentration. This is expected – it is natural for many children to feel this way following a scary or stressful situation.

Most children who experience the stress of a flood will gradually recover with time, reassurance, and patience. However, despite all the care you can provide, your children may still need additional support. Please do not hesitate to contact counsellors at St Joseph’s College, speak with your doctor (GP) or trusted health professional.

For further information and resources for parents/carers and young people please don’t hesitate to contact wellbeing@sje.vic.edu.au or explore the resources below.

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

Alcohol & Drug Support Line: 1800 198 024

Domestic Violence Helpline: 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732

Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

Headspace Echuca: 451 High Street, Echuca, Victoria 3564 - (03) 5485 5048

Headspace: Support pathways for young people - https://headspace.org.au/

Beyond Blue: support for anxiety, depression and suicide prevention -https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Reachout schools: resources for students impacted directly or indirectly by a natural disaster - https://schools.au.reachout.com/natural-disasters

Talking to children about natural disasters, traumatic events, or worries about the future:https://vimeo.com/394049129

Supporting a young person after a natural disaster: https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/supporting-a-young-person/natural-disasters/