As parts of the South West grapples with heavy rainfall and flooding, it's important to recognise that people respond to natural disasters differently, from anger and confusion to fear, sadness or shock.

These are normal reactions to *not normal* events.

These reactions can be severe and are at their worst in the first week after the event. However, in most cases, they fade over a month.

These reactions can include:

- feeling overwhelmed, numb and detached

- not being able to focus

- inability to plan ahead

- constant tearfulness

- feeling angry

- intrusive memories or bad dreams related to the event

- trouble sleeping

- constant questioning – 'What if I had done x, y or z, instead?'

- 'replaying' the event and inventing different outcomes in order to be prepared should it happen again.

In the weeks, months or even years after being impacted by a natural disaster, there are things that you can do to help navigate and overcome these feelings.

Take care of your mental health as well as your physical safety during this challenging time.

If your day-to-day is seriously affected for more than one month after the event, it's important to discuss it with a GP or mental health professional.

For support managing ongoing distress, phone:

• Lifeline on 13 11 14.
• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
• KidsHelpline (ages 5-25) on 1800 55 1800.
• 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55) for a mental health triage phone service.