Although the majority of indicators suggest an improvement in wellbeing, a number of Cantabrians are still struggling with earthquake-related stressors.

“The proportion of people experiencing anxiety about ongoing aftershocks was at its highest level since September 2012, doubling from nine per cent last year to 18 per cent this year,” he says.

“This increase is likely to be explained by the fact that the survey took place in April, just two months after the Valentine’s Day quake.”

Mr Meates says the Canterbury Wellbeing Index shows that there’s increasing demand on Canterbury’s mental health services.

There has been a 21% increase in the number of 18-64 year old clients accessing mental health services from the 12 months prior to the February earthquake to the most recent 12 months of data (April 2015 – March 2016).

Mr Meates says six years on, some Cantabrians still face significant hurdles to their recovery.

“For many, time does heal, but international research tells us that the emotional effects of a disaster can last for up to ten years.The focus of the recovery is now on identifying those at risk of being left behind and ensuring they get the support they need,” says Mr Meates.

Those who are finding it hard and need support can ring the Canterbury Support Line on 0800 777 846.

Other findings:

• The Canterbury Wellbeing Index shows that while unemployment in Canterbury continues to be low at around 3.1 per cent, economic growth is beginning to slow down following the initial impetus of the rebuild. Canterbury GDP growth was amongst the lowest across New Zealand in 2015, easing back to 1.9 per cent growth from 5.8 per cent growth in the year to December 2014.
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• After a period of rapid growth, rent levels for new tenancies in greater Christchurch have decreased since early 2015, and are once again below Wellington and national levels.
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• According to Canterbury Wellbeing Survey, forty-three per cent of the 630 people surveyed who own the dwelling they usually live in, and who have had their insurance claim resolved, were concerned about the quality of repairs or believe re-repairs are required.

The Canterbury Wellbeing Survey is a representative sample of greater Christchurch residents undertaken every six months. In 2016 there were 3,100 respondents. You can read the full findings here: www.cph.co.nz/your-health/wellbeing-survey/

The Canterbury Wellbeing Index is a set of measures or indicators from over twenty local and national agencies across a diverse range of fields including health, education, housing, and employment. It is available at: www.cph.co.nz/your-health/canterbury-wellbeing-index/

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