Some jobs are tougher than others so make sure you pay attention to your loved one’s behaviour. After a traumatic situation it’s completely normal if they show signs of stress, anxiety or depression, but if these signs are still present after four weeks, they may need extra help.
Changes in sleeping and/or eating patterns.
Seeming tired and irritable.
Constant worrying.
Muscle tension or restlessness.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Loss of interest in things they used to enjoy.
Feelings of anger, sadness or frustration.
Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt.
Everyone reacts to situations differently, so be flexible with the support you provide. If you notice your loved one struggling, ask them how they want to be helped. They may want to chat about it, or they may prefer some time to themselves.
Remind yourself that you don’t have to ‘fix the problem’, there are psychologists and medical professionals for that. But be there for them, let them open up, listen to them, and acknowledge their feelings.
Learn to identify you or your family member’s warning signs and symptoms (some are listed above).
Establish routines, which can help manage stress by making the day predictable.
Have fun and spend time doing things you enjoy as a couple/family.
Prioritise health with a balanced diet, regular exercise, hydration and adequate sleep.
Manage fatigue by scheduling time to relax (e.g. meditation or yoga).
Allocate time to calmly and openly share thoughts and feelings.
Focus on the positives and look for solutions when faced with problems.
Focus your energy on what is within your control, rather then what is outside of your control.
Emergency service work can be very rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally draining. That’s why it’s important that our employees and volunteers reach out to their family for much needed support; however, sometimes this can take a toll on them too. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure you use the tools and contacts we’ve provided below.
Speak to them about any physical or mental health problems. It is recommend that you see the same GP, rather than seeing a different GP each time. This will help with trust, rapport, continuity of care and a holistic wellbeing approach.
They have the training to provide support and the resources to connect the individual with other support systems.
The DFES Wellness Team provides holistic support and information to help promote positive wellbeing and resiliency. You can contact us to find out information on appropriate support services. Contact the team at wellness@dfes.wa.gov.au.
The DFES Peer Support Programs consists of trained employees and volunteers who can provide initial support and information on health and wellbeing services. Peer Support Officers can be contacted directly via the staff intranet and volunteer hub.
This service is available to all DFES employees, volunteers and their immediate family. You can access this service for work, volunteer or personal related matters. Face-to face, telephone or video call options are available. Each person is entitled to six (6) sessions per year (one year from their first session with the provider). All you need to do is directly contact any of the DFES providers outlined below.
PeopleSense: Access general, state wide counselling services from Monday to Thursday between 9am and 7pm (last appointment is at 6pm) and Friday between 9am and 5pm (last appointment is at 4pm). PeopleSense also provides a 24/7 crisis line for immediate psychological support. Call 9388 9000 or Free call 1300 307 912.
Converge International: Access general, state wide counselling services from Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm (last appointment is at 5pm). Converge International also provides a 24/7 crisis line for immediate psychological support. Free call 1300 687 327.
Martinovich Psychological Services (MPS): Access general counselling services from Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm (last appointment at 5pm) or Saturdays by prior arrangement. Contact the office closest to you: Fremantle (9433 6559), Rockingham (9527 6599) or Dunsborough (9750 5356).
To ensure the Psychological Support Service is providing you with quality support it is important that we receive feedback. Collectively, this feedback will help us continually improve this service so that it best supports you in times of need.
There are two ways you can provide feedback:
1. Directly through the provider – each provider offers a feedback survey.
2. DFES Psychological Support Service Feedback Survey.
Please note both feedback surveys are:
- Voluntary.
- Confidential.
You can access the DFES Psychological Support Service Feedback Survey here.
Crisis Care
Lifeline
Beyondblue
Road Trauma Support WA
Family Helpline
Kids Helpline
Mensline Australia
Mental Health Emergencies
The Samaritans
Family Drug Support
Healthdirect
Poisons Information
Emergency Services Volunteers’ Hardship Assistance Scheme