Government to implement findings from mental health hotline review

The government has accepted all the recommendations from a report into the telehealth service for mental health. The review found too many people who tried to call for help didn't get through. "Too many people approaching these services do not get their calls answered, a proportion of whom may be experiencing acute distress," the independent report said. It also found the telehealth services weren't adequately integrated with the wider mental health and addiction system. Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey said the government was "acting swiftly to implement the findings of the review". "The review provides reassurance that core safety systems are in place, including triage, risk assessment, escalation processes, and clinical governance," he said. "But it also makes clear there is more work to do. Too many people are not getting through quickly enough, and we do not always have enough visibility of what happens after someone is referred or escalated to another service." He outlined three initiatives intended to address the report's findings. First was to expand peer support via the 1737 hotline, which previously operated between 2pm and 10pm, to 9am to midnight. It would also commission a pilot to attempt proactive follow-up calls to people who had contacted 1737 in distress. The third initiative would set up a 24/7 suicide prevention crisis line within the telehealth system. "We are clear, and there are no exceptions to the rule; when someone reaches out for help, they should be able to access the support they need without waiting too long," Doocey said. Where to get help: Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason. Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357. Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends. Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202. Samaritans: 0800 726 666. Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz. What's Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds. Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, and English. Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254. Healthline: 0800 611 116. Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155. OUTLine: 0800 688 5463.