In a heartfelt gathering at the Bernalillo County Commission meeting, the spotlight shone on mental health awareness as officials proclaimed May 25 as Mental Health Awareness Day. The event featured Rosetta Sanchez, director of the New Mexico Crisis Access Line, who, alongside her dedicated team, received the proclamation that emphasized the importance of mental health support in the community.

As Sanchez read the proclamation, she highlighted this year's theme, "Turn Awareness into Action." This theme resonates deeply in a world where the demand for human connection and accessible behavioral health care is ever-increasing. The proclamation underscored the staggering statistic that more than one in five U.S. adults face mental health challenges, a reality that affects countless families and individuals.

The meeting also celebrated the establishment of a new Behavioral Health Authority Division in Bernalillo County, a significant step following the passage of a behavioral health ordinance in 2024. This initiative aims to navigate the complexities of mental health care in a rapidly changing environment, ensuring that support is available to all who need it.

Sanchez shared impressive statistics from the previous year, noting that over 85,000 calls were made to the 988 crisis line and more than 63,000 to the peer-to-peer warm line. She emphasized the effectiveness of their services, with 96% of callers reporting that they felt stabilized after reaching out for help. "There’s no shame, there’s no judgment," Sanchez reassured the audience, encouraging anyone in need to utilize the free and confidential services available 24/7.

Dr. Lindstrom, the New Mexico Behavioral Health Director, reflected on the progress made since the launch of the crisis line, marking it as a pivotal moment for mental health access in the state. The meeting concluded with a call to action for the community, urging public and private institutions, businesses, and schools to foster a culture of understanding and support for mental well-being.

As the meeting wrapped up, the commitment to mental health awareness and support echoed through the hall, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and hope for a future where mental health care is accessible to all.