Crisis call line expands

The need for crisis help is increasing in the state. To answer the need, New Mexico Crisis and Access Line is expanding and moving to a larger space to provide more behavioral health services in New Mexico.

Calls to NMCAL have nearly doubled since 2016 and helplines nationwide have been experiencing an increase in calls for the last several years. This increased call volume is attributed to: a rise in suicide rates; society openly talking about mental health; media campaigns increasing awareness on resources and recovery; and communities striving to reduce stigmas about mental health and people promoting resources where support can be found.

The crisis line is staffed by mental health professionals who respond to both crisis and noncrisis mental health and substance use concerns every day. NMCAL is available statewide and toll-free. Since it began operation in 2013, the call center has received nearly 177,072 calls and nearly 1,000 text messages.

NMCAL helps New Mexicans locate the help, services and support they need for mental health crises such as suicidal thoughts, anxiety, depression, substance abuse and others. Still, New Mexico’s suicide rate has consistently been more than 50% higher than the rate for the whole United States.

To call – and for more information – New Mexico Crisis and Access Line 1-855-NMCRISIS (1-855-662-7474)

Peer-to-Peer Warmline Call or Textline 1-855-4NM-7100 (1-855-466-7100), nmcrisisline. com.