Primary care nursing: Mental health and addiction
Primary care nurses play a vital role in recognising and responding to mental health and addiction needs early. This learning page provides practical resources, e-learning, and tools to support assessment, engagement, brief intervention and ongoing care across settings in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Professional development (study) grant for registered nurses working in primary health care
This is a study grant for professional development specifically for registered nurses working in the primary health care sector. Applicants for this grant will need to be working in primary health care which includes, GP practice nurses, community nurses and school nurses.
The study grant will contribute to the costs involved to take part in a learning activity relating to building confidence, skills and knowledge in mental health and addiction that will benefit the people they support.
Applications open on Monday 9 November 2026 and close at 5pm on Friday 4 December 2026
Lunchtime learning series for primary care nurses
Te Pou hosts online learning sessions for primary health care nurses across Aotearoa, delivered by a skilled nurse practitioner on a range of topics. These lunchtime sessions (from noon to 1pm) are a relaxed way to build knowledge and gain practical skills in providing mental health and addiction support.
Register for upcoming sessions:
Missed a session? Catch up on past sessions below.
Addiction and withdrawal support
Risk management support in primary care
Effective communication and brief intervention for anxiety and depression
The hierarchy of diagnostic priority
Introduction to depression and pharmacotherapy within the primary care context
Suicidal risk assessment in primary care
Understanding neurodiversity
Resources
Ko Awatea Learn e-learnings
Log in to Ko Awatea Learn for “Refresher Training” and “Addictions” folders to find courses and continuing professional development certificates.
