Submissions needed for a review of Aotearoa New Zealand’s approach to Mental Health and Addiction
Ministry of Health – Manatū Hauora are transforming Aotearoa New Zealand’s approach to mental health and addiction, so that people can get the support they need, when and where they need it. Ensuring they have fit for purpose legislation is one part of this transformation.
He Ara Oranga: Report of the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction recommended repealing and replacing the Mental Health Act with legislation that “reflects a human rights-based approach, promotes supported decision-making, aligns with the recovery and wellbeing model of mental health, and provides measures to minimise compulsory or coercive treatment”.
They have heard why change is needed, and the next step is to get clear direction for what new mental health legislation in Aotearoa New Zealand should look like.
Why your views matter
The Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 sets out when, why and how the government can intervene in a person’s life to give them mental health treatment against their will.
The Mental Health Act has not kept pace with the international shift towards a recovery and wellbeing approach to care and has never been comprehensively reviewed.
Although the current Mental Health Act is only used for a small proportion of people who access mental health and addiction services each year, it has a big impact on the lives of those who do experience it, and their family and whānau.
Your feedback on the topics in this consultation will help the Government develop new mental health legislation.
You can get help to prepare and submit your submission.
Submissions close 28 Jan 2022
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