In the last financial year police responded to nearly 60,000 calls involving a person having a mental health crisis, in distress, or threatening suicide.
The report was prepared for Poto Williams, who has taken over as police Minister since the general election. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The figure of 58,124 calls is in a briefing to the new police Minister, Poto Williams.
The briefing also said police attend 90 percent of suicide calls and 45 percent of other mental health calls.
"We want to ensure increases in demand can be managed and that people in mental distress and crisis get the right help at the right time," the briefing said.
A police spokesperson said the responsibility for providing services under the Mental Health Act primarily rests with mental health services but police provide assistance where legislation provides for police intervention.
"Our frontline staff undergo mental health training as recruits, and police have refresher e-learning modules available for all staff. Staff also undergo a two-yearly refresher custodial training which has specific focus on vulnerable people and suicide prevention," a police spokesperson said.
"Additionally, our police negotiation team officers have specialist training around people who are experiencing a crisis, as well as suicide intervention."
This year Wellington District Police alongside Wellington Free Ambulance and Coast and Capital DHB launched a new inter-agency, Co-Response Team (CRT).
"It provides a wraparound service to people in mental distress. It's an innovative approach that enables a health-led response as the preferred option for addressing emergency mental health-related calls."
The police said it's hoped the response team, which is being independently evaluated by Otago University, will provide a model that other districts around the country can follow.
Where to get help:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
What's Up: online chat (3pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 helpline (12pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-11pm weekends)
Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.