A spike in post-quake anxiety, depression and behavioural problems is reported in Christchurch.
Research shows such problems become more obvious about two years after traumatic events.
GP Sue Bagshaw said she's seeing increasing numbers of anxious children and adolescents.
School guidance counsellor Sarah Maindonald said rising family violence is also affecting young people's mental health, and there's a long wait for specialist assessment.
Canterbury District Health Board says the six - 10 week wait is partly due to a shortage of psychiatrists.
But it says emergency cases are seen immediately and earthquake-related trauma is dealt with within two weeks.
More on this can be heard on Insight on Sunday morning.
