With bushfire season already upon us, it would not be surprising if you start to feel an unease swirl in the stomach, stirred on by forecasts of a warm dry spring and accompanying media attention on the need for bushfire preparation. It may be helpful to consider that these warnings (both from your body and from the media) can serve as a reminder to prepare mentally for what can be an emotionally taxing time of the year for first responders.
Some first responders may have the memories and feelings from the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires lingering in mind, with the volume turned up at times of significance such as an impending bushfire season. It is important to note that there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ way to feel at times like this, with there likely being a lot of variation in how you, your family, and your colleagues/fellow volunteers are feeling heading into this season.
While any physical and emotional symptoms caused by times of stress usually subside on their own within a few weeks, it is worth considering that the duration of the bushfire season along with its unpredictability makes it even more important to identify and implement any useful strategies and supports that can be in place for you and your family for as long as needed, with professional support also always an option.
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