There is a well-established body of research from New Zealand and overseas that clearly links alcohol use with poor mental health outcomes and increased suicide risk. This Briefing lays out the evidence to counter recent media statements from a prominent mental health campaigner suggesting alcohol can be a "solution".

Recent law changes mean councils across Aotearoa New Zealand have increased powers to develop and enforce effective Local Alcohol Policies that reduce alcohol availability and the associated harms in their communities.

The Ministry of Health is seeking submissions on the 2025-2029 Suicide Prevention Action Plan, offering an opportunity for a transformative approach that addresses the broader societal factors contributing to suicide in New Zealand, with a focus on cross-sector collaboration, Māori leadership, and robust data-driven strategies.

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello has argued that halving the excise tax on heated tobacco products would see 7,200 “hardcore smokers” stop smoking however recent studies have questioned the logic and evidence for 'hardening', with a recent systematic review concluding that smoking is instead 'softening'.