Curry County outlines substance use and behavioral health outreach, highlights "hidden in plain sight" trailer

Bethany Brozowski, program manager for the Curry County substance use and behavioral health program, and program coordinator Melissa Gomez Williams described prevention and outreach initiatives funded by a SAMHSA grant awarded in October 2023 (year 3 of a five-year award through September 2028).

Brozowski said the program focuses on preventing and reducing marijuana, opioid and mental-health-related harms among county youth (ages 11–17) and young adults (18–24). She listed community activities — annual chalk walks during Suicide Prevention Month, a Bridal Awareness "In the Silence" campaign and partnerships to promote the statewide 988 crisis line.

Gomez Williams highlighted two distribution programs: 55 free lockboxes (since December) and 163 medication-destroyer units (since June), and noted a recent partnership with PRMC Pharmacy for distribution. She described free trainings: overdose prevention classes that provide Naloxone and certification, and Mental Health First Aid for adults to identify and respond to crises. Brozowski also said the program conducted a high-response New Mexico Community Survey (NMCS) that informed regional planning under the Behavioral Health Reform and Investment Act and that the program’s "hidden in plain sight" trailer — a simulated teen bedroom used to raise awareness — will be available for public viewing at standing summer dates and at a June 13 Hillcrest Park Zoo event.

Commissioners thanked the presenters and asked a few clarifying questions about who attends the trailer and how youth are protected; Brozowski said adults are escorted through the trailer while youth receive separate programming.

The commission did not take action on the briefing; presenters invited follow-up contact and partnership suggestions.