The Mental Health Minister disagrees with Mike King's comments about alcohol and mental health

In an interview on Newstalk ZB yesterday, King said alcohol could be a solution for mental health - as it could stop negative thoughts

Minister Matt Doocey says alcohol affects the part of the brain that controls inhibition, so people may feel less anxious and relaxed after a drink -- but this quickly wears off.

He says he's committed to ensuring people have access to appropriate alcohol and other drug addiction services, and that substance abuse is treated as a health issue.

Doocey says his interest remains with the additional 15-thousand young people who can access free mental health support due to funding provided to King's I Am Hope Foundation.