18 May 2023

Mental health support jumps up 30% since Gabrielle

From Morning Report, 7:57 am on 18 May 2023

Advocates warn mental health services won't cope with the rising tide of post-cyclone trauma that is surfacing in Hawke's Bay and Tairawhiti.

Te Whatu Ora says the number of people seeking mental health support through their GP has jumped 30 percent in Hawke's Bay alone, since Cyclone Gabrielle.

Those in the field say they're seeing more depression and anxiety - and despite a mental wellbeing budget boost for flood affected areas - there aren't enough trained professionals to meet the need.

Lauren Crimp reports.