Flood-ravaged communities tackle mental illness
The January floods were an event few in the Lockyer Valley will forget, but as the community rebuilds, serious, long-term effects such as mental illnesses are emerging among flood survivors.
Higher ground: mixed meaning for Lockyer Valley
With the first anniversary of the Queensland floods only months away local councils and community groups have been working to create and implement support structures and mental health help programs for those affected by floods and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.
PTSD can be a touchy and sometimes overlooked issue, but the Lockyer Valley Council is positive flood survivors are moving to an emotionally higher ground.
The movement of the town of Grantham to higher ground is a symbol of the community’s willingness to make a positive step towards a ‘new normal’.