Cracks in NZ mental health system revealed in reviewLAWRENCE SMITH/FAIRFAX NZ Long wait times for services and strain on mental health workers were common problems noted in the People's Mental Health Review. The People's Mental Health Review was carried out in response to a 2016 announcement funding was being cut from mental health services across the country. ANDY JACKSON/FAIRFAX NZ Comedian and anti-suicide campaigner Mike King said New Zealand's mental health system was "reactive rather than proactive". READ MORE:* Government 'out of touch' with mental health crisis, says health group* Hospital delays mental health programme to meet budget"There were no surprises in the findings for us. The report made several recommendations, including an urgent funding increase for mental health services, a fully independent oversight of the mental health system, and a Royal Commission of Inquiry into the structure and provision of mental health services.

Source: Stuff April 19, 2017 03:01 UTC