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Study: Sandy's Impact Takes Toll On Residents' Mental Health

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A new study finds the lingering effects of Superstorm Sandy are taking a toll on the mental health of New Jersey residents impacted by the storm.

The study was released Wednesday and says more than a quarter of the 100,000 residents whose homes were hit by structural damage during Sandy are experiencing moderate to severe mental health distress two and a half years later.

"These years later, we're still working to get back to normal, but many people may not realize that," New Jersey Health Commissioner Mary O'Dowd told 1010 WINS' Rebecca Granet.

Study: Sandy's Impact Takes Toll On Residents' Mental Health

Researchers say about 14 percent of residents report post-traumatic stress symptoms. The study also says recurring mold problems related to the October 2012 storm were linked to asthma and mental health problems.

Researchers from Rutgers and New York universities along with Columbia and Colorado State universities surveyed 1,000 affected state residents for the study. The number represents the 1 million New Jersey residents living in Sandy's path.

It was funded by the state Health Department.

"Recovery takes a long time," David Abramson, the principle investigator of the study, said. "It was a reminder to us that a lot of times the federal programs and funding that are available run out before the need has been addressed."

O'Dowd said they have asked to extend their behavioral health and screening programs for another year.

"This research validates the fact that this is still an ongoing challenge," O'Dowd said.

The best way to get access to programs at the state level is to reach out to your health care provider or local public health officials, O'Dowd said.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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