MEDIA RELEASE

16 June 2011

Stay or go decision not easy for Cantabs

The Association of Counsellors is urging Canterbury residents to think carefully before making major decisions about whether or not to stay in the region.

NZAC president, Jonathan Loan, says Cantabrians are clearly very upset by the continued shaking in Christchurch and indications are that many may be thinking about leaving the region.

"This is a tough decision even for those with few ties in the city.

"It's certainly not a decision to be taken lightly or when you are feeling stressed," Mr Loan said.

The key questions Cantabrians should ask themselves is 'what might we be going to and what are we leaving behind?'.

"Jobs and houses are the obvious, immediate consideration for most people, but support networks of friends and family may be just as important, or even more so, especially in circumstances like we face now."

Mr Loan urged people facing decisions like this not to make rash judgments.

"We would strongly advise people to make a carefully considered decision with the help of a trusted person.

"Get some good advice from someone who can help you think through all the issues, because there will be plenty, and who can provide an objective opinion about the pros and cons associated with such a move.

"We appreciate that a lot of people are under stress as a result of the ongoing earthquakes, and that's exactly the wrong time to be making major decisions on your own about your future and that of your family."

Mr Loan said finding a way to manage what are normal reactions to ongoing stress before making a final major life decision will help ensure that decision is best for families.
ends

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