Mental Health Commission Calls for National Crisis Response System
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission is urging the establishment of a nationwide mental health crisis response system, citing significant inconsistencies and gaps in current services.
The call follows the release today of the Commission’s report, Urupare mōrearea: Crisis responses monitoring report, which found that access to crisis support is fragmented and varies considerably across New Zealand. Approximately 100 people access crisis mental health services each day, highlighting the urgent need for improvement. “We need to build a system that supports people when and where they need it,” said Karen Orsborn, Chief Executive of Te Hiringa Mahara. “The current system doesn’t always work well for Māori, young people or those living rurally in particular.”
The report details that some districts offer a comprehensive range of crisis services, while others have limited options, especially outside of regular business hours. This disparity contributes to inequities in care and can delay crucial support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. The Commission is advocating for a fully implemented national system by June 2027, with shorter-term goals including a 24/7 helpline by June 2026. Last year, around 35,000 people accessed crisis services, with helplines accounting for 51.7 percent of those contacts – demonstrating the importance of readily available phone support, as detailed in resources from the Ministry of Health.
Officials stated that a coordinated national approach is vital to ensure equitable access to mental health support for all New Zealanders, and to reduce the strain on existing services. The Commission will continue to work with the government and stakeholders to develop and implement the proposed system.
Where to get help:
- Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time
- Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7)
- Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
- Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
- Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
- What’s Up: free counselling for 5 to 19 years old, online chat 11am-10.30pm 7 days/week or free phone 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 11am-11pm
- Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm or text 832 Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm
- Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
- Healthline: 0800 611 116
- Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
- OUTLine: 0800 688 5463 (6pm-9pm)
If it is an emergency, call 111.
