Looking after your mental wellbeing

Published: 18/02/2023 | Safety, Health & Wellbeing | National

Experiencing a disaster can be overwhelming. It’s normal for you and your whānau to feel upset and physically drained during and after an emergency event. Feelings can change day to day, and you may be going through ups and downs right now. You might feel out of sorts, uneasy and down. All these emotions are normal, and there are many ways to look after ourselves, and each other.

Some positive ways of coping with any stress, anxiety or grief:

Supporting one another, especially colleagues, family and in the community. Whanaungatanga – we are better together.
Providing emotional support – comforting each other
Self-care – this can look different to each person and examples are karakia or other cultural wellbeing practices, exercise, connecting with others, meditation etc.
Sharing your experience and feelings with others – when the time is right for you
Reaching out for wellbeing support – you’re not alone

If you require wellbeing advice and support, please do not hesitate to talk to your manager/officer in charge, peer supporter(external link) or contact the wellbeing team(external link). The welfare officers are available to support you and work with you to navigate any concerns or challenges you may be experiencing. Other options available for wellbeing support include:

Your GP
Confidential counselling support through Vitae 0508 664 981
Free call or text 1737(external link) any time for support from a trained counsellor
Free call Lifeline on 0800 543354 or text HELP to 4357
Free call Anxiety NZ helpline 0800 269 4389 (0800 ANXIETY)
Contracted psychologists via the Safety, Health and Wellbeing team

For external support relating to Cyclone Gabrielle please visit the Civil Defence website for a list of support(external link) available for concerns such as health care, insurance and lodging a claim, Māori community/iwi support, Pacific support and more.

Other resources: