Published December 2022

The Report of the Government Inquiry into Mental
Health and Addiction, He Ara Oranga, identified
concerns that mental health professionals have
developed a risk-averse culture and defensive
practice. To respond to these concerns, He
Ara Oranga recommended that there should
be a national discussion to reconsider beliefs,
evidence and attitudes about mental health and
risk. This discussion paper has been written to
contribute to that conversation.
The document should be viewed as a
conversation starter for discussion and the
frank sharing of ideas; it is not intended
to be a definitive or complete response to
Recommendation 35. Please note this document
does not necessarily reflect the views of the
Ministry of Health. (From the document). Record #7989