Factsheet — How to report on the Mental Health Act accurately, and safely
Downloadable Only
Description:
“I lost my rights, my job and almost the last bit of hope I had because of the biased way the Mental Health Act was used against me.” - Kerri Butler, Māori lived experience leader
The Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 is Aotearoa New Zealand’s mental health law. It covers how we treat New Zealanders believed to need acute mental health support, and affects one New Zealander, every 46 minutes.The Government is replacing the Mental Health Act with a new law , which will come into effect in 2027.How to talk about the Mental Health Act
The language we use to describe the Mental Health Act, or any social issue, is powerful. It can be used both to make great progress, or to reinforce prejudiced and discriminatory attitudes towards people with mental distress or illness. The language and framing we choose to use is always within our power.
For guidance on how to report accurately and safely on the Mental Health Act both during and after its legislative changes, download our A4 factsheet below.
All our work is backed by evidence, research, and what we hear from New Zealanders every day.
You may also be interested in
Five ways to wellbeing poster A2 te reo Māori
A poster of the Five Ways of Wellbeing in te reo Māori
Share this page
There is no health without mental health
Help ensure everyone in Aotearoa has the tools to enjoy positive mental health and wellbeing.
Did you find this product page useful?