Health – New roadmap calls for faster action on mental health, addiction and wellbeing

Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission- has today launched a new roadmap at Parliament calling for faster, more focused action to improve mental health, addiction and wellbeing outcomes in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The call comes as psychological distress continues to rise across Aotearoa, while the mental health and addiction system struggles to keep pace with people’s needs.

“While progress has been made in recent years, change is not happening fast enough, especially for young people and Māori,” says Te Hiringa Mahara Chief Executive Karen Orsborn.

“This roadmap is designed to help decision-makers focus effort and investment where it can make the greatest difference, so people and whānau can get support earlier, closer to home, and in ways that work for them.

“The mental health system cannot solve these issues on its own, but it must play its part well.

“The roadmap draws on five years of monitoring and advocacy. It highlights key priorities for action, including earlier and easier access to support for young people, a better coordinated crisis response system, stronger investment in Kaupapa Māori and culturally appropriate services, and growth in the mental health and addiction workforce.”

“Today we were proud to launch the roadmap alongside MPs from across the political spectrum and to focus on the action needed now.

“Te Hiringa Mahara is urging decision-makers to look closely at the roadmap to improve support for people and whānau, and help ensure the system is fit for purpose,” says Ms Orsborn.