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Sunday Panel: Should mental health services work together?

Author
Newstalk ZB ,
Publish Date
Sun, 14 Apr 2019, 1:35PM
Squabbles over funding appear to be harming customers. (Photo / Getty)

Sunday Panel: Should mental health services work together?

Author
Newstalk ZB ,
Publish Date
Sun, 14 Apr 2019, 1:35PM

Is a fragmented mental health service affecting those in need of help?

This week, a woman attempting to use Lifeline was unable to get through to the service, receiving a text several hours after making contact.

It has led to calls for more Government funding for the service, but it has also raised questions about the current approach.

Lifeline is still seen as the go-to service by New Zealanders, but the 1737 number, run by Homecare Medical, receives the Government funding. 

It appears to have created tension, with mental health patients needing help not referred to the other if one is busy, and medical advice showcasing a split. 

Tim Beveridge and Shane Te Pou joined Francesca Rudkin to discuss whether mental health services need to put their tensions aside and work together.

Where to get help:

If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call police immediately on 111.

Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

Or if you need to talk to someone else:

Lifeline – 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Youthline – 0800 376 633 or free text 234
Kidsline – 0800 54 37 54 (for under 18s)
What's Up – 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18 year olds 1pm–10pm weekdays and 3pm–10pm weekends)
Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202
Samaritans – 0800 726 666
OUTLine NZ – 0800 688 5463
Healthline – 0800 611 116

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