Dismay at threat to Mental Health Services in Canterbury

Lifeline Aotearoa today expressed dismay at the news Canterbury District Health Board may be forced to cut spending on mental health services.

Funding for mental health in Canterbury during 2015/16 was below the national average and is expected to drop in the coming year by $15 per person.

“This has understandably led to high levels of concern and criticism in the region,” says Jo Denvir, CEO of Lifeline Aotearoa.

“Access to mental health services is critical for any community but for people living in and around Christchurch continued easy access to excellent services is absolutely essential.

“I am concerned, but not at all surprised, to see reports today from Christchurch GPs that suicide rates are on the rise along with levels of anxiety and depression.

“This is exactly what we would expect from people coming to grips with the reality of living in a city that has experienced, and continues to experience, significant seismic activity. Sunday’s 5.7 quake reminded us that this is an ongoing reality for the people of Canterbury.

“While the Government talks about ‘demand driven’ funding we need to be very clear that for many people it can takes a number of months and even years to reach out for help after a traumatic event. So when the earthquake struck Christchurch on Sunday it will have triggered feelings of anxiety, fear, and distress for an already fragile and vulnerable population.

“We can not assume that everyone who needed professional help in Christchurch since the first earthquakes has accessed it already. At certain points people will find that their traditional support networks of friends and family can no longer provide the kind of support they need.

Ms Denvir also says children will increasingly require specialist support as they grow up in a region where earthquakes continue to be are a very real and traumatic experience. She says services must be readily available.

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