Early intervention welcomed, key to Govt’s new mental health targets

Promoting mental wellbeing and focusing on preventative measures are a welcome relief for a system that is too often geared towards solely responding at crisis levels, says the NZ Association of Counsellors.

“While the system can’t be fixed overnight, we’re pleased to see action to address the need for promoting wellbeing with more prevention and early intervention, expanding access to counselling services, and more whānau- and community-based responses,” says NZAC President Sarah Maindonald.

Her comments follow the announcement of a new $10 million mental health fund and five new targets that aim to improve New Zealanders’ mental wellbeing by Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey.

“Counselling can help bridge the gap between primary and secondary health services, as well as provide much-needed professional therapeutic support that is more consistent with holistic worldviews, particularly Te Ao Māori and Pacific world views,” Maindonald adds.

“Counselling is used in a range of settings and by a diversity of practitioners, including those working in private practice, social services and corrections, as well as in mental health and addiction services.”

There is significant research to demonstrate that counselling reduces psychological distress.

“Talking therapies involve talking to someone who is professionally qualified, like an NZAC-registered counsellor, to help explore thoughts and feelings, and the effect that these have on behaviour and mood.

“Addressing one’s behaviour and mood also has a positive impact on relationships with whānau and family and in the workplace.

“Understanding all this can support people to make and sustain changes, and promote greater agency in their lives.”

Maindonald believes the Government could be bold and ringfence some of the mental health and addiction investment for preventative counselling and early intervention at schools.

This is where the most positive mental health outcomes are likely to be found, Maindonald says, resulting in a more resilient future for today’s youth.

“We’ve evidence aplenty that school counselling can improve students’ mental health outcomes, delivering a positive social return on investment.”