Try new approach to serving mentally ill

Iwas pleased to see the frontpage article (“People cannot get access,” April 7) shedding light on the challenging issue of access to mental health services. New Mexico’s ongoing health provider crisis continues to escalate each year, necessitating a more innovative approach from the state to address this pressing matter.

Inspired by California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s initiative, mental health experts are proposing a proactive solution that involves implementing individualized care plans for those grappling with severe mental health issues, many of whom are unfortunately homeless.

It’s a stark reality that individuals struggling to cope often find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system or face noncompliance issues even when treatment is available.

Families, like my own, and friends endure the heartache of navigating a system where hospitals may refuse admission unless imminent harm is expressed.

Here’s a glimpse of how this service plan could operate: tailored to each person’s needs, it may encompass housing, transportation, therapy, employment or volunteer opportunities, psychiatric evaluations, social service referrals, food assistance and more. Yet, these crucial services often encounter daunting barriers, such as lengthy waiting lists and stringent eligibility criteria.

Implementing a mandated service plan would not only identify the precise needs of individuals but also shift the focus from provider-centric to community-centric services. Furthermore, it would provide valuable insights to the Legislature regarding county-specific challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of mental illnesses and debunking harmful misconceptions.

The second aspect of this plan involves appointing advocates for those who opt for a care plan, ideally individuals with lived experience who can provide peer support and monitor progress.

While this approach won’t singlehandedly resolve the issue, it serves as a crucial starting point. Counties participating in this pilot program could potentially secure future funding from the legislature to support individuals with care plans, paving the way for sustained assistance and progress.

I would recommend that Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham include this issue as part of any special session on public safety and crime.