Extreme weather events can have negative consequences for mental and physical health. Extreme weather or natural disasters are related to increases in post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, and anxiety in adults and young people. Furthermore, those exposed to severe weather conditions are at risk of injury, disease, and worsening of chronic illnesses.
Rangatahi/young people may be particularly vulnerable during an extreme weather event. Growing Up in New Zealand asked 680 rangatahi/young people and 817 mothers/primary caregivers about their experiences during and after the Auckland Anniversary Weekend Flooding and/or cyclone Gabrielle. These extreme weather events occurred at the start of the 2023 school year, which may have disrupted educational experiences. Damage to infrastructure and housing may have impacted social connectedness and access to health and social services.
The outcomes of this survey will be presented in this webinar.
