Families who have experienced disasters (part four): How to support children and young people after a disaster

This episode is the fourth in a series where we talk to families who have experienced disasters. Disasters like floods, storms, bushfire and drought can leave a lasting impact on the families and children who experience them and are becoming more frequent across Australia. 

In this episode host Nadia Rossi talks with Willow, who was 20 years old when her family experienced severe storms in the Dandenong Ranges in 2021. Willow shares her perspectives as a young person experiencing such a major event, her ongoing recovery process and the impacts the disaster had on her and her family. Willow also offers some advice on how adults can help support the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people who experience disasters.

Content warning: This episode discusses experiences of severe storm events. If listening to it brings up any difficult feelings for you, please seek help from your mental health professional or one of these crisis or support services.

In this episode you will hear:

• Willow share what went through her mind immediately after the disaster and what is needed for young people in the short and long term after a major event [8:45] 
• Willow share what parents, communities and councils can do to support young people after disasters [17:18] 
• Willow offers advice to first responders who encounter a child or young person immediately after a disaster [19:05]
• Willow shares advice to children and young people who have experienced disasters and to the parents supporting them [21:52] 

Further information and resources:

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