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Published: September 2023

Kia ora, tough times affect each of us differently. It’s okay to reach out if you need to or, if you’re worried about someone else, to encourage them to reach out. We all need a bit of support from time to time. If you or someone you know is struggling, we want you to know that however you or they

Published: 29 June, 2023

The significant contribution made by peer support workers in the mental health and addiction system is highlighted in a new insights paper released today by Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.   The findings of the Peer Support Workforce Insight Paper include calls

Published: 25 August, 2022

Wano said. “We have listened to the voices of communities, iwi, hapū, whānau and young people with experience of care who have contributed to the legislative process. We know there is compelling evidence of harm experienced by young people in care,” Mr Wano said. “Young people who experience State

Published: 8 August, 2025

Pacific adults. Synthesising the health survey data is part of Te Hiringa Mahara - Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission’s role to be thought leaders in the system for mental health and wellbeing. We primarily do this through our core monitoring products. We have recently expanded our suite of

Published: 20 April, 2026

, we have not seen movement in this critical area. “Behind this Bill are 5000 voices who shared their experiences during the government’s Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction back in 2018,” says Te Hiringa Mahara Director of Mental Health and Addiction Sector Leadership, Sonya Russell. “The

Published: 7 May, 2026

extreme weather events in recent years, and we can expect mental distress and harm from problematic substance use to increase after future events. These events take a heavy toll on people and communities, and the impacts can last well beyond the initial emergency. “Mental health support must be included

Published: 9 April, 2025

move ahead when they are ready. In areas where improvements can be introduced now, there is the opportunity for people in need to be better supported by a health response. People need to have confidence in the plans and implementation approach.  It is important that NZ Police and HealthNZ Te Whatu

Published: 22 March, 2023

; “Crises like the pandemic have shown us that re-establishing and strengthening the social infrastructure that supports connection and communities is key to supporting wellbeing,” says Te Hiringa Mahara Chief Executive Karen Orsborn.   “We can expect rates of distress and addiction to

Published: January 2026

collaboratively to ensure the best health outcomes for our communities. Prior to joining Te Hiringa Mahara, Sonya worked in both health and community sectors. Positions have included Principal Advisor and Programme Director for Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health, acting CEO for a non-government organisation (NGO

Published: March 2024

, and how those involved become heard. Alison also draws on her sector work experience, which includes ten years working for South Auckland’s mental health and addiction service. This involved responsibility for the administration of the Mental Health Act 1992. Alison has also served as a Board