15/12/2025
Like many across Australia, we are holding deep sadness and shock following the tragic events in Bondi. In the aftermath of events like this, it’s completely understandable to feel unsettled, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed - even if you were not directly affected.
A gentle reminder about viewing safety, for both young people and adults:
🧠 Repeated exposure can be harmful
Watching or reading distressing content over and over - especially videos, images, or graphic descriptions - can heighten anxiety, disrupt sleep, and intensify feelings of fear or helplessness. This is true for adults and even more so for children and adolescents, whose nervous systems are still developing.
📱 Be mindful of social media and news consumption.
Algorithms often push the most confronting content. Consider:
- Limiting how often you check the news
- Avoiding graphic footage or commentary
- Taking breaks from social media if you notice your stress increasing
👂 Young people need support, not silence
Children and teens may overhear conversations, see headlines, or encounter content online. Rather than shielding completely, it can help to:
- Ask what they’ve heard and how they’re feeling
- Correct misinformation calmly
- Reassure them about safety without over-promising
- Let them know it’s okay to feel upset, confused, or scared
🫶 Check in with yourself and others
Notice how your body is responding - tension, fatigue, headaches, irritability are common after collective trauma. Gentle routines, movement, rest, and connection can help regulate your nervous system.
If you or someone you care about is feeling overwhelmed or distressed, support is available:
- Lifeline 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636
- Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
- In an emergency, call 000
There is no “right” way to feel after events like this. Be kind to yourself, limit exposure where you can, and reach out for support if you need it.
