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.
Primary health mental health and addiction nursing capability grants
We are inviting applications for a one-off study grant for Primary Health Organisations (PHOs), Māori and Pacific health providers, and community-based nurse-led services to strengthen the mental health and addiction capability of primary care nurses. This initiative will enable providers to access funding for high-quality training and development opportunities aligned with national priorities for equitable, timely, community-based mental health and addiction support.
Applications open on Monday 8 June and close at midday on Tuesday 30 June.
Lunchtime learning series for primary care nurses
Te Pou hosts monthly 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 mental health and addiction support.
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
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.
