The impact of climate anxiety: a growing concern for New Zealanders.
In the wake of yet another severe weather event, we're taking a closer look at the mental health challenges faced by our communities. Reporter Simon Mercep sat down with Shaun Robinson, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation, to discuss the often-overlooked issue of climate anxiety and its potential long-term effects.
The Real Danger Lies in the Aftermath
While New Zealanders are resilient and pull together during disasters, the true test of mental wellbeing comes later. As Robinson explains, "The real danger time is when people realize things won't go back to normal. That's when their mental health can be severely challenged."
Staying Connected: A Key to Resilience
Research following the Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle revealed a powerful truth: staying connected to whanau and community is crucial for resilience. It's a simple yet effective strategy to boost mental health during challenging times.
Climate Anxiety: A Growing Concern
Robinson confirms that climate anxiety is a very real issue, especially among young people. He highlights the importance of support and community connection in mitigating the long-term impacts of traumatic events.
The Need for More Support
The government has taken steps to address this issue, funding local coordinators and relaunching campaigns like All Sorts. However, Robinson believes more can be done, especially considering the ongoing nature of these weather events and the existing gaps in mental health services.
A Nationwide Challenge
New Zealand faces a significant challenge in ensuring sufficient access to mental health services. The lack of understanding and underfunding of mental health issues has led to a shortage of skilled professionals, particularly in youth mental health.
The Risk to Our Future
If we fail to address the mental health needs of our young people, the consequences could be dire. As Robinson puts it, "Nearly 25% of our young people experiencing mental distress is not a strong sign for our future. Building community and individual resilience is crucial for New Zealand's long-term success."
The All Sorts Campaign: A Call to Action
The All Sorts campaign encourages people to stay connected and provides information on accessing specific mental health support. It offers resources and tips to help individuals and communities build resilience. Robinson emphasizes the importance of recognizing prolonged symptoms and seeking help when needed.
Taking Action
For those seeking support, Robinson suggests reaching out to services like Youthline and 1737, and visiting the Allsorts and Mental Health Foundation websites for more resources. He encourages us all to trust our instincts and ask for help when needed, ensuring we have the support we deserve.
