Engaging in a national discussion on mental health and risk
He Ara Oranga: Report of the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction noted that the current focus on managing risk results in outcomes that are not always the most beneficial for tāngata whaiora, clinicians, or communities.
Recommendation 35 stated that we needed a national discussion to reconsider beliefs, evidence and attitudes about mental health and risk. The report encouraged mental health advocacy groups and sector leaders, people with lived experience, families and whānau, professional colleges, coroners, the Health and Disability Commissioner, New Zealand Police and the Health Quality and Safety Commission to participate.
Many people in the mental health and addiction sector are already having conversations about risk, with conversations happening across sectors, within teams and organisations, and more broadly amongst communities. There are champions leading the kōrero and encouraging a range of views and input.
To support this national conversation to reconsider beliefs, evidence and attitudes about mental health and risk, Manatū Hauora has commissioned an external document which can be used as a discussion prompt by anyone interested in supporting the wider conversation.
The document should be viewed as a conversation starter for discussion and the frank sharing of ideas; it is not meant to represent any particular viewpoint. The aim of this document is to contribute to the national discussion about mental health and risk, and to encourage people to get involved in the conversation happening in their communities.
Please note: This document does not necessarily reflect the views of the Ministry of Health.