Health Minister Ayesha Verrall says a team of mental health workers are being brought in to offer local support to those most impacted by the cyclone.
Photo: RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The government is investing $3.25 million to expand existing mental health support in Hawke’s Bay after Cyclone Gabrielle.
The money will boost walk-in mental wellbeing services in general practice and expand the ‘All Sorts’ mental wellbeing campaign.
Health Minister Ayesha Verrall announced the funding on Friday while meeting with frontline workers in Te Matau-a-Māui.
“I want those facing the worst of it to understand that it’s okay not to be okay. When you need support, it will be there for you.”
A team of mental health workers were being brought in to offer local support to those most impacted by the cyclone, Verrall said.
The Māori Health Authority, Te Aka Whai Ora, was also designing a response to support te ao Māori mental wellbeing solutions.
“The personal recovery for those who have lost loved ones, livelihoods and homes to Cyclone Gabrielle is going to be incredibly tough,” Verall said.
“This government will continue to stand alongside these New Zealanders and make sure they aren’t doing it alone.”
Free telehealth and digital services will be funded for those unable to travel to get mental health support.
Finding help
If you think someone you know needs further tautoko/support, or if you need support yourself, there is help available. In case of an emergency, call 111.
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
For more tips and support, go to allsorts.org.nz.
Farmstrong’s website offers a range of resources to help manage wellbeing. Visit farmstrong.co.nz
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
What’s Up: free counselling for 5 to 19 years old, online chat 11am-10.30pm 7days/week or free phone 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 11am-11pm Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm or text 832 Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi and English.
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254, to arrange a free and confidential chat, or visit rural-support.org.nz
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
OUTLine: 0800 688 5463 (6pm-9pm)
The Lowdown: Text 5626 for support to help young people recognise and understand depression or anxiety
Alcohol Drug Helpline: Call 0800 787 797 to speak with a trained counsellor
You can also download the Groov and Headstrong wellbeing apps for free for Android and Apple phones via the Google Play or Apple App Store.
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