Experiencing a natural disaster, such as a flood, earthquake, or fire, can be incredibly stressful and scary, and take a great toll on your mental health and wellbeing.
Everyone responds differently in these situations and at their own pace, too. Please remember that feeling all sorts of emotions in difficult situations is absolutely normal and human. Whatever you’re going through, know that you’re not alone, and you’re doing the best you can right now.
Everyone responds differently in these situations and at their own pace, too. Please remember that feeling all sorts of emotions in difficult situations is absolutely normal and human. Whatever you’re going through, know that you’re not alone, and you’re doing the best you can right now.
Latest articles and resources
Free Resource
Looking after your wellbeing after a natural disaster
When you’re cleaning up the mess after a natural disaster, it’s easy to neglect your wellbeing and put everyone’s needs ahead of your own. But to look after your loved ones and your community, you also have to take care of yourself. Here are some no-nonsense tips and tools you can add into your routine, no matter how busy you are.
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Article
A kōrero with Dr Sarb Johal, part 1: Dealing with uncertainty, survivor’s guilt, and all sorts of emotions right now
In light of the recent floods and natural disasters affecting parts of Aotearoa in 2026, we’re resharing this kōrero with Dr Sarb Johal. Although first published after Cyclone Gabrielle, the advice remains deeply relevant today.
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Article
A kōrero with Dr Sarb Johal, part 2: On dealing with climate anxiety and finding a sense of calm again
We asked Dr Sarb for tips on managing fear and stress, coping with increased feelings of climate anxiety, and more.
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Free Resource
Getting through a natural disaster
Going through a natural disaster can be stressful and scary, and right now, you may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, tired, angry, hōhā, sad, or something else entirely. However you’re feeling, it’s perfectly normal. If you can, take things day by day or hour by hour, and remember you’re doing the best you can. - print ready file
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Free Resource
Getting through a natural disaster (accessible)
Information and advice in alternate formats, including large print versions, Braille, audio file, and NZSL video.
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Free Resource
Getting through a natural disaster (more languages)
Information and advice in English, Māori, Samoan, Fijian, Tongan, Kiribati, Tuvalu, Bislama, and Solomon Islands Pijin.
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Tips
Supporting yourself and your loved ones during the disaster aftermath
Everyone responds differently in these situations and at their own pace, too. It’s important to remember that feeling all sorts of emotions in difficult situations is absolutely normal and human.
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