Psychological trauma new fear from earthquake

Red Cross workers say those taking refuge at Christchurch's emergency centres were now realising the enormity of the earthquake damage, with the trauma of losing a home taking an increasingly emotional toll.

The three shelters at Linwood College, Burnside High School and Addington Raceway looked after about 250 people overnight.

It's believed that number could double tonight.

Many may never be able to return to their homes because they were so badly damaged they would have to be demolished.

For others the repairs could take weeks.

Yanni Tromp, who is running the Red Cross emergency centre at Linwood College, said the trauma was reducing many people to tears.

 "It is starting to sink in. We are starting to see more nervous and upset people than yesterday" she said "They will have to find alternative accommodation for some time."

Many people were at the centre because their homes had no power, no water and no sewage."

Apart from the needs for food and shelter, many displaced people just needed a bit of a hug, said Tromp.

"But if they can bring blankets, pillows, a mattress, because we might be running a little low on mattresses, clothing, their toilet bag...

"We had a family with sick children and two enormous suitcases and I love those people because they had everything they needed and we only needed to supply them with a roof over their heads."

Tromp said people could find it helpful to share their experiences with others who had gone through similar trauma.

 "It is better than sitting alone at home and being afraid."

- © Fairfax NZ News