Mr Kitchen said some of the firefighters he had spoken to had battled depression.

"Some have been having ongoing problems of feeling fearful, withdrawing from friends or finding their relationships are crumbling."

Mr Kitchen said all firefighters were shocked by the event, some experiencing "survivor guilt and the feeling they weren't able to save someone in the next street, perhaps".

"These emotions are only just gradually abating. A lot of people's emotions will only be helped when they get through this fire season safely. This will then start to return their confidence"

On a more practical level, Mr Kitchen said help had also been needed for CFA volunteers in the Kinglake area who lost their homes on Black Saturday. About 30 of them suffered in this way.

Even Mr Kitchen has been given debriefing support. "After the debriefing, I felt as though a burden had been lifted."

He said a "small minority" of members had had trouble putting their CFA jacket back on, but that had been balanced by the number of people wanting to sign up as new volunteers.

He was "in awe" at the strength shown by CFA volunteers. "They are a magnificent group. I think the feeling among the CFA has even strengthened. We are a good family who support each other."

Self-help tips for people who experienced Black Saturday:

■ Lead a healthy lifestyle.

■ Find someone to talk to.

■ Take regular breaks from your work and life routine.

■ Take an interest in hobbies and other leisure activities.

■ Maintain friendships.

Source: Harley Kitchen