A new report is raising concerns about the use of seclusion and compulsory treatment in Aotearoa’s mental health system, with Māori continuing to experience disproportionate impacts.
Sonya Russell, Director of Mental Health and Addiction Sector Leadership at Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission, says the findings reinforce the need for a stronger human rights approach across mental health and addiction services.
The report identifies troubling increases in restrictive practices, including seclusion and compulsory treatment, with the Commission particularly concerned about what the figures reveal for Māori.
Te Hiringa Mahara says reducing coercive practices requires services that protect people’s dignity, autonomy and rights while providing culturally appropriate care that responds to the needs of tāngata whaiora and whānau.
Russell joins Radio Waatea to discuss what is driving the trends, why Māori continue to experience inequitable outcomes and what needs to change across the mental health system.
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