Campaign announced to raise awareness about helpline

The New Mexico Human Services Department, Behavioral Health Services Division and the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line announced a campaign last week to raise awareness about the availability of a 24-hour statewide emotional support helpline to assist New Mexicans experiencing anxiety, stress or emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Talk Helpline at1-855-NMCRISIS (662-7474) provides immediate assistance, referrals and someone to talk to in times of overwhelming feelings. Professionally trained staff is available to help manage stress, anxiety, fear and loss by developing coping activities.

“With the pandemic creating chaos in the lives of so many people, it is especially important to let New Mexicans know that they are not alone and that it is normal to feel anxious and worried. We want them to know they can confidentially reach out to talk to someone anytime and anyplace. We want individuals to have the information and skills to help them not only during this time, but in the future,” said BHSD director Neal A. Bowen, Ph.D.

The COVID-19 talk helpline campaign aims to decrease anxiety through education and information so people and their communities understand they can take control of the emotional aspects of a crisis.

The campaign is aimed at those affected by COVID-19 including: New Mexico’s Native American population, older adults, employees in residential settings, patients in care settings, individuals who have tested positive or are awaiting test results and children, youth, adults and families.

The 24/7 talk helpline is supported by the Behavioral Health Services Division’s statewide New Mexico Crisis and Access Line, a centralized, single, free telephone number to get immediate emotional support assistance and resources. Funding is provided by a FEMA grant.

For information, visit https://www.nmcrisisline.com/