Key New Zealand primary mental health and addiction activity
On this page:
National Depression Initiative
Reducing the impact of depression on the lives of New Zealanders.
The National Depression Initiative (NDI) aims to reduce the impact of depression on the lives of New Zealanders, by aiding early recognition, appropriate treatment, and recovery. It is part of the Ministry of Health's commitment to addressing suicide prevention, as well as to improving the mental health and well-being of all New Zealanders.
The objectives of the National Depression Initiative are:
- strengthen individual, family and social factors that protect against depression
- improve community and professional responsiveness to depression.
In order to achieve these objectives the National Depression Initiative is made up of many components, including television, radio and online advertising, health resources, guidelines and workforce development for primary care, online support services, two websites, and research. The National Depression Initiative also supports primary mental health service development and the implementation of new guidelines for GPs on mental health issues including depression.
For more information about these approaches visit the National Depression Initiative pages on the Ministry of Health website.
NDI - Key resources and links
Web resources
- National Depression Initiative Website, www.depression.org.nz. The site provides information about depression and where to find help.
- Like Minds Like Mine website, www.likeminds.org.nz.
- The Lowdown website, www.thelowdown.co.nz is an interactive website for youth where they can safely talk about their experiences of depression, and get help. A helpline is available for those wanting more information and support on 0800 111 757
Guidelines
New guidelines on common mental health issues including depression, were completed and launched by the New Zealand Guidelines Group in July 2008, to support the work of health professionals in primary care settings. The guidelines and summary guidelines document are available in PDF format from both the Ministry of Health and the New Zealand Guidelines Group.
Information on the National Depression Initiative sourced from the Ministry of Health.
Suicide prevention
Suicide and suicidal behaviour is a major social and health issue in New Zealand. Read more about the suicide prevention work in New Zealand.