For the first anniversary of the Kaikōura earthquake, All Right? is encouraging people to make a moment to pause and think about how they, and those around them, are doing.
Rachel Vaughan from the All Right? campaign says the first anniversary is a good time to reflect on all that we have been through.
“The 14th of November will mark one year since that 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook us all out of our beds, damaged our houses and lifelines, and changed our landscape forever,” says Rachel.
“For some of us, the earthquake seems like it was a lifetime ago. For others, it seems like it was yesterday. We are all at different places; some of us grieving our losses, others excited about our future.
“Many of us are at different places on the journey – we all cope with things differently. The anniversary is a good time to pause and think about how you and those you care about are doing.”
Kaikōura Views
Our Kaikōura Views project shares where fifteen Kaikōura locals are at when it comes to their recovery.
By sharing their stories and perspectives, the project lets people know that other people are feeling just like they are - because no matter how you’re feeling, you're not alone.
Natural Disasters and Mental Health
Natural disasters, like the Hurunui Kaikōura earthquake, have a major impact on people's mental health, with international literature suggesting that psychosocial recovery after a disaster can take five to ten years. A key reason that recovery can take so long is that there's often a double blow. The shock and effects of the disaster itself. Then secondary, recovery-related issues such as dealing with broken homes, insurance claims, road closures and the loss of community facilities.
“The good news is that there are things we can all do to make ourselves feel and function better while we’re going through times of stress.
“The Five Ways to Wellbeing are five simple actions we can do each day that have been proven to lift how we feel, even when times are tough. And while they won’t fix the things that are stressing us, they will help us cope better.”
Rachel says that the strength of the Kaikōura community has shone through over the last year.
“The love and support that people in Kaikōura have shown each other has been simply amazing. This is a caring community and that’s something to celebrate. Together we can come out of this stronger than before,” says Rachel.
Anyone who needs wellbeing support, or is concerned about how the ongoing stress is affecting them or their whānau can call 0800 777 846, any time 24/7. Free counselling and support services are still available. You can also ask at your general practice or social service provider in Hurunui or Kaikōura.