Mental health support services
Support services have been made available to assist those affected by the Bondi terror attack.
Following the horrific Bondi massacre, a variety of community services are available to support the mental health of those affected.
JewishCare NSW has extended its intake and triage service and is the first point of contact for those who need emotional support or someone to talk to.
“As a community, it is important to provide a single, clear point of contact for people seeking mental health support. This ensures individuals know where to turn for help, and that mental health professionals wishing to volunteer their services know who to contact. JewishCare has worked closely with the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, CHS, CSG, Jewish House and JCA establishing the supports,” JewishCare NSW stated.
Jewish House is also on the ground in Bondi supporting those affected, delivering wrap-around care, including housing assistance, counselling and children’s programs.
“We have a 24/7 crisis line and access to psychologists and specialist mental-health support. Widows unable to work will receive rental and mortgage assistance, traumatised children will be supported and families will receive practical help including groceries, medical bills support, and financial aid during this difficult time,” Jewish House stated.
Jewish Care Victoria’s mental health supports include clinical psychology at no cost as well as social work support. Jewish Care’s mental health education program supports individuals, families, schools and organisations to recognise distress, respond safely and build resilience during challenging times.
A delegation from United Hatzalah of Israel’s Psychotrauma and Crisis Response Unit arrived in Sydney to provide immediate psychological and emotional support to complement local services.
United Hatzalah will focus on supporting community leaders, stabilising trauma and panic, and assisting families of victims, survivors and eyewitnesses during the most acute phase of the crisis. The delegation will also share best practices in emergency response and trauma management.
Hadassah Australia is hosting a live webinar from Israel on December 18 at 6pm AEDT with Dr Shiri Ben David, chief psychologist at Hadassah Medical Organisation, which will include practical advice on strengthening emotional wellbeing and guidance on speaking with children and young people.
Flyers on mental health were also distributed around Bondi titled “What parents and caregivers can expect during and immediately after a disaster or community trauma”, designed by the National Workforce Centre for Child and Mental Health.
For support:
JewishCare NSW: 1300 133 660
Jewish House Crisis Line: 1300 544 357
Jewish Care Victoria: (03) 85175999
Hadassah Australia webinar: www.hadassahaustralia.org/upcomingevents
United Hatzalah: darya@israelrescue.org
Lifeline: 13 11 14