Coping Personally with the Drought

Last updated: 01 November 2002

When things get difficult

Difficulties may feel more of a burden if it's hard to see when it's going to get better. While most people will manage, there are still times when everyone may need some extra help and support.

There are three important things you need to know about:

• normal reactions to a disaster like drought
• positive ways of coping
• when to get extra help.

What is normal?

Normal reactions to a disaster like drought include:

• frustration, anger, helplessness, and sometimes even despair when it all seems 'too much' or is 'taking too long'
• horror and grief when the extent of loss is realised
• these feelings may come in waves. They may settle when one practical problem is solved but resurface as individuals and families face new problems or difficult decisions over time.

How do I cope?

Positive ways of coping may be:

• supporting one another, especially in the family and in your community
• providing practical support - comforting each other and checking on your neighbours
• doing practical tasks - tackling the practical jobs that need to be done 'a bit at a time' and counting each success
• sharing your experience and feelings with others a bit at a time, when it's right for you
• looking after your own and your family's general health - rest, exercise, food, and company all help (not excessive drinking!).

When to ask for extra help

Sometimes disaster-related stress can become chronic, particularly when the disaster is prolonged, like the drought. It can affect your physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Feelings of depression and despair are common. This is not a sign of failure but a human reaction to an overwhelming crisis.

It's time to ask for help if:

• your sleep is badly affected
• you feel very distressed, irritable, on edge, or agitated much of the time
• you feel hopeless, despairing, miserable, or like you 'can't go on'
• you have trouble concentrating, are distracted, and can't do your usual tasks
• you feel your health is not so good
• you have new symptoms or old problems seem to have returned, eg breathing, heart, stomach problems.

For children, withdrawal, aggressive behaviours, difficulties at school, problems separating from parents or going to sleep may indicate a need for help.

Support services

For personal drought support, contact:

• the 24 hour Rural Support Line on 1800 201 123
• the NSW Health Drought Stress and Counselling line on 1800 551 174
• the Department of Community Health Services Disaster Recovery Centre on (02) 9683 2388
• 24 hour local mental health services

For more information on other assistance relating to the drought, call the Drought Hotline run by NSW Agriculture on 1800 814 647.