Following the New Zealand November 2016 earthquake, mental health staff were deployed to assist with the immediate levels of distress in the community. The work included working with individuals, couples and families, staff wellbeing sessions, psychosocial education, and participating in outreach clinics to isolated communities.

Aware of international evidence and the experience following the 2010/11 earthquakes, the aim was to provide mental health assistance to address issues as early as possible with the intent that this would reduce the future demands on specialist services.

Following the response phase, a small team of mental health specialists formed the Recovery and Wellbeing Team working in the affected communities undertaking clinical, consult, advisory, and educational work as needed. The team flexed and evolved to meet the changing needs. A range of data was collected and analyzed to monitor the work and the outcomes of this team.

With additional support provided following the earthquake, there has been a significant positive change in the numbers of referrals to secondary mental health services in Christchurch. A new model of care has now been collaboratively developed, as the mental health system positively adapted to a changed reality. This model is essentially an easily accessed, early intervention, comprehensive model of mental health service to maintain the positive gains.

Following a significant disaster, all involved will benefit from some form of psychosocial support. For most, this will be achieved through the person’s own networks. For some, the event will trigger responses from previous traumatic experiences and a few mental health supports will be required. Having skilled professionals with the ability to cope with the constantly changing needs, and who are available to meet people at the earliest opportunity, has enabled issues to be resolved rather than leaving these issues to escalate over time.