Pressure on addiction treatment services highlighted

New analysis shows a 10.5% reduction in the number of people accessing addiction treatment services over the last five years raising concerns about whether there is sufficient capacity to respond to an increase in demand.

"Recent reports show drug use has increased, yet over the past five years there has been a drop in the number of people accessing treatment and support. The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission is concerned that people may not be able to access support when they need it," said Sonya Russell, Director Mental Health and Addiction System Leadership.

In 2023/24, around 45,000 people accessed addiction treatment services, 5,000 fewer than five years earlier. Referrals have also dropped, down 14.6% in 2023/24 compared with the peak in 2020/21. And the percentage of declined referrals has almost doubled over the last five years from 4.7% of total referrals in 2019/20 to 8.6% in 2023/24.

"A reported surge in methamphetamine use in the last year is likely to put further pressure on services. At a time that we need to be bolstering services, we’re seeing fewer people access addiction services."

"Another sign that the system is under pressure is the wait time for people seeking support. For those seeking support from a specialist addiction service, the wait is getting longer."

"There is a strong case for increased investment in addiction services," Sonya Russell said.

"We are concerned there is not sufficient capacity within the health system to cope with increasing needs. By bringing a dedicated focus to investment, workforce and removing barriers, we will ensure more people will get the help they need."

Alongside a focus on addiction specialist services, Te Hiringa Mahara has published further insights into access to publicly funded mental health and addiction services.