Joseph Boden: Otago University professor of psychological medicine responds to Mike King's claims about alcohol

Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

A professor of psychological medicine says mental health advocates shouldn't spout misinformation about alcohol.

I Am Hope and Gumboot Friday campaigner Mike King yesterday told Newstalk ZB alcohol could be a solution for people with mental health issues.

Labour has called on the Government to review its $24 million funding for his charity, which delivers youth counselling.

Otago University's Joseph Boden says although alcohol can temporarily help people think about fewer problems, it's far from a fix.

"The difficulty is - it is actually a nervous system depressant. So when misused, it can increase suicide risk."

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