Topic Tuesday // Life After Bushfires // Tues 19th January, 7:00-8:30PM AEDT

This event is open for everyone: for people with a direct experience of mental health issues as well as family, friends, loved ones and carers. It is also open to anyone impacted by bushfire, or interested in supporting those who are, whether you are joining from areas recovering from bushfires, or have been impacted by bushfires from a distance, you are welcome to join.

Australia's Bushfires

Bushfires in Australia have long lasting impact on our communities for those who live in fire affected areas, those directly impacted by fire and for those who are looking on across the country. The last 12 months have signified a time of repairing, reforming, rebuilding and recovering for many towns and communities around Australia after the large number of fires in 2019-2020.

Life After Bushfires

Since November 2020, SANE has had a dedicated Life After Bushfires forum filled with the stories and experiences of those recovering from bushfires.

This month we will be talking about what life after bushfires is like for individuals and communities. The last few months have marked the anniversaries for many communities since one of our worst bushfire seasons, and we have been hearing the stories of the long term impact, but also of community connection, resilience and hope.

We will be joined by one of our amazing Bushfire Ambassadors @Fizz , who many of you may have met in the Life After Bushfires Forums. Fizz is passionate about self care and wellbeing, and has lived and worked in areas impacted by bush fires, bringing a wealth of knowledge from their own experiences, and the experiences of others in their community.

Please join us on Tuesday the 19th of January 2021 from 7:00pm-8:30pm AEDT as we discuss coping with the ongoing impact of trauma from bushfires, and share tips, strategies and resources for maintaining wellbeing.

Want to receive a reminder on the night? Hit the 'Support' button below.

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I'm new here - what is this?

The event runs from 7pm - 8.30pm AEDT on the 19th of January. Each month we focus on a different topic with the session facilitated by a Community Manager or Moderator, and joined by a Peer Support Worker.

The first post of the thread (this one) will give you an idea of what the topic is and what will be covered.

How do I get involved?

Our text-based event takes place right here! As it is text-based, no software is needed. During the session, to keep up with the latest posts hit the 'refresh' button on your browser for the newest comments (it doesn't automatically update). Keep an eye out for page numbers at the top & bottom of the page, and jump to the highest page number for the most recent post. We recommend using a desktop computer or laptop for the event for overall ease of use .

Throughout the session, the facilitator will post questions for you to answer, usually asking for your own experience on the topic. To contribute to the event, just hit the 'reply' button and share your thoughts. No answers are right or wrong, and everyone is welcome to get involved!

What time does this event start in my timezone?

• AEDT 7-8:30PM
• AEST- 7pm
• ACDT- 6:30pm
• ACST- 5:30pm
• WST- 4pm

If you have any questions about how to use the Forums, check out our Guides.

Topic Tuesday discussions can cover some heavy topics. If you are feeling distress during this live discussion, there are support options available to you. You can start a new discussion on the forums and talk to other members, contact the SANE Help Centre on 1800 18 7263, or find crisis support options here.