Natural Hazards Research Australia (the Centre) funded scholar Dr Fadia Isaac at Federation University Australia studied the psychological toll of bushfires, developing a promising new digital intervention to support survivors, first responders and emergency service personnel.
Fadia’s completed PhD thesis explored the psychological impacts of bushfires to reveal alarming rates of trauma among survivors. After conducting an international survey of 126 bushfire survivors from Australia, Canada and the United States, the survey found that nearly half experienced clinical insomnia, over three-quarters reported PTSD symptoms and nearly 30% suffered from recurring nightmares.
In response to these findings, Fadia developed and tested a novel digital intervention, Sleep Best-i, designed to address trauma-related sleep disturbances. The four-week clinical trial, which combined Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) and Exposure, Relaxation and Rescripting Therapy (ERRT), showed promising results. While immediate improvements in insomnia and anxiety were limited, follow-up data three months later revealed significant reductions in both, along with improved sleep quality and reduced depressive symptoms.
“These results highlight the long-term potential of digital, self-paced interventions for trauma recovery,” Fadia explained. “Sleep Best-i could be a game-changer for communities affected by natural disasters and for those on the front lines.”
Fadia’s passion for this field was ignited by the devastating 2019 bushfires and the mental health challenges that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I initially stumbled into psychology without a clear plan,” she said. “But as I progressed through my studies, I became increasingly fascinated by how people respond to stress, trauma and adversity.”
“The combination of the bushfires and the emerging mental health challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic made me realise the pressing need for research into the mental health effects of natural hazards, particularly trauma and sleep disturbances.
“My research now focuses on understanding and addressing the psychological aftermath of natural disasters, with the goal of developing effective, evidence-based interventions to support those affected,” Fadia said.
Throughout her PhD journey, the Centre played a pivotal role in supporting Fadia’s development. From funding conference attendance to fostering professional networks, the Centre provided a platform for Fadia to grow.
“The Centre gave me the opportunity to present my work nationally and internationally, which helped me build confidence and credibility in my field,” she said. “Receiving the Early Career Researcher of the Year award in 2023 was a milestone I couldn’t have achieved without their support.”
Fadia is now preparing to present her findings at the World Sleep Society conference in Singapore and the AFAC25 conference in Perth later this year.
While her research initially focused on bushfire survivors, Fadia sees broader applications, particularly for first responders.
“These individuals face repeated exposure to trauma, and the psychological toll can be immense,” she noted. “Sleep Best-i offers a practical, accessible tool to help them manage PTSD, insomnia and anxiety. My goal is to inform policies and interventions that support their mental health both during and after their service.”
As she looks ahead, Fadia remains committed to advancing trauma-informed care and digital mental health solutions.
“I am excited for the next chapter in my research journey,” she said. “And I’m deeply grateful for all the support I’ve received from the Centre. Without their support, none of this would have been possible.”