Photo: NZ HerladThe use of methamphetamine "skyrocketed" in Gisborne during the Covid-19 lockdown, the Hauora Tairāwhiti health board has been told. Hauora Tairāwhiti mental health and addictions head of department Dr Sue Mackersey told board members that Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) evidence of meth levels found in Gisborne's untreated sewage supported their own "activities". Mackersey said it was difficult to talk about mental health without referring to suicide. Mackersey said the planned new $18.8 million inpatient mental health and addiction facility, which would be built "in a couple of years" was a huge morale-booster for staff. Mackersey said Tairāwhiti mental health and addiction services were aiming to reduce seclusion to zero hours.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 12, 2020 18:56 UTC