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Harmful health behaviors are prevalent in our communities – including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity – while chronic illnesses like diabetes often necessitate lifestyle modifications as part of treatment. Altering these behaviors presents significant challenges, demanding sustained effort, time, and strong motivation.
Motivational interviewing (MI) offers a cooperative dialogue approach to enhance an individual's personal drive and dedication to change. Studies indicate that with proper training, diverse healthcare professionals can effectively employ MI to support the transformation of addictive and unhealthy habits. This behavioral change initiative could substantially enhance the healthcare workforce's capabilities, aligning with key goals outlined in Aotearoa New Zealand's Health and Disability strategies.