Post-quake mental health issues escalating

7:09 pm on 19 December 2010

A Canterbury group representing those affected by September's earthquake says more needs to be done to alleviate growing mental health issues in the community.

CanCERN says a lack of information is causing people significant stress, frustration and fear.

A spokesperson, Leanne Curtis, says the Government is throwing a lot of money at mental health support, but it is not going to the right place.

She says a lot of people, especially the elderly, are feeling isolated and afraid to leave home.

Ms Curtis says she knows of at least three people who have had mental breakdowns since the quake.

She says agencies such as the Earthquake Commission and insurance companies need to find out what information people need to reduce their stress.