A University of Hawaii research study finds that while Lahaina wildfire survivors are making progress on housing and employment, mental health outcomes — particularly for children — continue to deteriorate. Researchers have conducted over 4,000 appointments for 2,500+ participants and are launching new programs to improve care access in rural areas.
- The Maui Wildfire Exposure Study reports mental health among Lahaina survivors is worsening even as housing and employment conditions slowly improve.
- Children are among the most affected, with researchers citing severe distress in kids as young as six years old.
- Housing instability, health concerns, and eroding social support networks remain key risk factors for survivor families.
- UH researchers have provided over 4,000 screenings and appointments — covering mental health, physical health, and social needs — to more than 2,500 study participants.
- A new program is being launched to connect survivors in rural areas like Lahaina to appropriate mental health and medical care.
Source: Hawaii News Now
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