In New Mexico, it’s estimated that roughly 5 percent of adults from a population of approximately 2 million people deal with severe mental health issues. While this is substantial, still more are dealing with mental wellness concerns that are deemed less serious.
Residents of the state will often not get the services they need, with statistics showing only roughly 45 percent seeking treatment with either a public or private mental wellness provider. Once a person recognizes a disorder, reaching out for help sooner rather than later is important.
As a state, community resources must be readily available so individuals know where to turn when there’s an issue. Most suffering with a condition will be hesitant to come forward unless the providers or the programs are accessible.
How To Get Mental Disorder Help
Mental disorder help is critical if you feel you or someone close to you is in crisis. It’s essential to react immediately by reaching out to a provider, a support group, or a program that can make a referral or offer a diagnosis and care program.
When you recognize that something doesn’t feel right, it’s the first step toward treating a disorder. Finding help for that disorder is the follow-up and most important next step. Early detection and competent therapeutic guidance offer the best chance for recovery.
As with any illness, early detection leads to a lower chance of relapse down the road. Once you reach out to a medical practitioner, they will establish a qualified diagnosis with a personalized care plan.
In order to have adequate treatment, it’s essential to know where to start when searching for help with your mental health. If you’re uncertain where to turn, reach out to a physician or counselor, a pastor, an advisor in the mental health field, or a trusted friend or family member.
Each community offers a range of resources for mental wellness services and support groups to assist. Visit https://nmcrisisline.com/ for New Mexico’s mental health crisis line. Additional mental health support resources include the following:
- Primary care physician or family practitioner
- Local medical/psychological society
- Mental health professionals, including certified counselors, psychologists/psychiatrists, social workers
- EAPs- Employee assistance programs
- Pastors, rabbis, priests, and other religious leaders
- Private clinics that specialize in mental health
- Community mental health facilities
A first step is reaching out to your family medical provider. The practitioner has insight into your medical history and will be able to discern if the symptoms are related to medications or an underlying illness. If these are ruled out, the doctor will then consult a mental disorder practitioner on your behalf.
Moderate to severe disorders, including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or major depression, should be treated with the help of a psychiatrist. This medical practitioner specializes in diagnosing mental disorders and developing appropriate care plans.
Free mental wellness support services
Support groups are a free resource open to anyone. If you need a mental disorder diagnosis and care but have no insurance, free support services can help, including the following:
- Local United Way
- County mental health agency
- County social services agency
Sometimes, college or university medical or psychology programs offer private treatment sessions at incredibly reduced costs. Some facilities even offer these for free for individuals with no insurance or on a fixed income. Go here for FAQs on mental health in New Mexico.
Mental health support group
Mental wellness peer groups are support services meant to augment, not replace, the care plan established by the mental health practitioner. These groups allow patients to speak with other people experiencing similar circumstances.
This allows each person to see their situation from a different perspective, to receive unique ideas for coping, and to receive suggestions on where to get help if they have yet to find a place that fits them.
These are people who will listen with a knowing mind, offering a safe place when many hesitate to discuss their mental wellness. Sometimes, this is a starting point for a lot of sufferers who need professional help.
Final Thought
New Mexico is a stunning state with a breathtaking landscape, but roughly “300,000 adults suffer with mental illness, and 43.3 percent have dealt with depression/anxiety.” Many don’t seek professional help, but assistance is available in the state and nationwide.
Some resources available for New Mexico residents include the New Mexico Crisis and Access Line, where counselors are available around the clock. The representatives can connect those in distress with emergency workers. Call:
855 NMCRISIS
Reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing:
800 273 TALK
For those who have suicidal thoughts, these should not be dismissed or ignored. Counselors are there to listen and talk.
NAMI- National Mental Health Hotline
The National Mental Health Hotline is available 24/7 for anyone facing mental health challenges throughout the 50 states. The representatives are there to talk and refer callers to a local professional for further help. Reach out to:
800 950 NAMI or Text NAMI to 741-741