Hodgson launches mental health, addiction report

Media release
Embargoed until 7pm Monday. April 30

Pete Hodgson launches report into mental health and addiction services

A report reviewing progress in New Zealand’s mental health and addiction sector over the past decade was launched today by Health Minister Pete Hodgson.

The report, Te Haererenga mo te Whakaōranga 1996-2006, the Journey of Recovery for the New Zealand Mental Health Sector, has been published by the Mental Health Commission.

Launching the report in Rotorua at the Enhancing our Com(mon) unity, a conference on creating social inclusion for people with mental illness, Pete Hodgson said New Zealand had come a long way in regard to the acknowledgement of mental health and addiction issues in our communities..

“We can be proud of our achievements, but as always, we need to do more."

The report recognises and celebrates the significant achievements in the sector following the 1995 government inquiry into mental health services led by Judge Ken Mason and identifies critical issues for the future

“The Commission felt that it was timely to look back over the decade and review what developments have occurred since Judge Mason’s landmark report,” says Chair Commissioner Ruth Harrison.

“This report shows the decade has seen rapid change and development of better services for people with experience of mental illness.

“The two most significant developments have been the adoption of a “recovery-based” approach within the services and the Whānau ora approach” to the delivery of mental health services.

“Another particularly pleasing development during the period has been the move towards New Zealand becoming a more inclusive society for people with experience of mental illness.

“This report is a tribute to all those who have played a part in developments in mental health and addiction services during the decade.

“But there is still more progress to be made. The Commission is looking forward to playing a lead role in helping to shape the services of mental health and addiction services in the future,” Ruth Harrison says.

ends

© Scoop Media