Natural disasters don’t just impact homes – they affect hearts and minds too. In the days, weeks, and even months after a crisis, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or even a bit numb.

At Acenda, we know that making a full recovery takes time, compassion, and assistance from others. That’s why every Acenda customer gets complimentary access to confidential, one-on-one support through Vivo. Whether you’re dealing with stress, grief, uncertainty, or trauma, professional help is available on your terms.

How you might be feeling

Normal responses to an abnormal event include: 

  • Feelings of anxiety or panic
  • Mood swings or irritability
  • Feeling flat or detached
  • Trouble eating or sleeping
  • Guilt about being safe when others weren’t as fortunate
  • Feeling like you should ‘just get on with it’ but can’t.

However, just because these responses may be natural, it doesn’t mean you should leave them untreated. 

Talk to a psychologist, no referral needed

Vivo mental health consults

With Vivo, every Acenda customer gets the opportunity to talk one-on-one with a psychologist at no extra cost – and you don’t need a referral. 

Consults are:

  • Completely confidential
  • Generally available within 5 to 10 business days
  • Able to be held by phone or video call
  • Supplemented with guidance and resources to support your ongoing recovery.

Whether it’s your first time speaking with someone or you’re looking for practical tips on how to cope, Vivo is here for you.

Book now at www.vivowellbeing.com.au

Support for families

With Vivo, the option to talk to a psychologist is available not just for you, but for your entire family. That includes your:

  • Partner
  • Children over 18
  • Parents
  • Partner’s parents

Young and adolescent children often feel the effects of disruption more intensely, even if they don’t always show it. As a parent, guidance from a psychologist can help you:

  • Understand what your child might be feeling
  • Learn how to talk about difficult topics
  • Build strategies to support your child’s emotional resilience

Getting the help you need

When to reach out

Many people who have experienced a traumatic event will hold off asking for help as they believe it’s ‘too soon’ or that their experience wasn’t ‘extreme enough’ (‘There are others who are worse off than me…’). 

However, it’s important to know you don’t have to be in crisis to ask for help.

Please reach out if you’re:

  • Struggling to feel like yourself after the disaster.
  • Worried about a friend or family member.
  • Feeling stuck or anxious about what’s next.
  • Experiencing symptoms of stress.
  • Feeling unsure how to move forward and wanting support. 

Practicing self-care in uncertain times

Here are a few gentle reminders to help you take care of your emotional health:

  • Stick to simple routines where you can – sleep, meals, and daylight are all important.
  • Talk it out, whether with friends, family, or a professional.
  • Move about each day, even if only a little.
  • Avoid information overload – check updates from reliable sources only.
  • Celebrate the small wins and recognise that recovery takes time.

Need help now?

You’re never alone in a natural disaster – and you don’t have to work through its aftermath alone either.

If you or someone you love is in crisis or feeling unsafe, call: