Torres Small Hosts Virtual Roundtable on Mental Health

May 23, 2020
Press Release

Las Cruces, N.M. –  Yesterday, during Mental Health Awareness Month, Rep. Xochitl Torres Small (D-NM) convened mental health professionals from the New Mexico Psychological Association for a virtual roundtable discussion focusing on the added challenges COVID-19 presents and improving access to behavioral health services across the state.

“This has been a difficult time for so many New Mexicans. Physical isolation, economic uncertainty, and disruptions to daily life can be immensely stressful and can have dire effects on mental health. Before the public health crisis, New Mexico lacked the necessary behavioral health infrastructure,” said Torres Small. “I’m working to pass bipartisan legislation to bring resources where they are needed the most, whether that’s through services for veterans, those in rural communities, or offering bilingual care. Discussions like these are critical to finding local solutions to make sure New Mexicans can get the care they need when they need it.”

This follows Torres Small’s continued efforts to improve access to behavioral health services:

  • Joined the bipartisan Congressional Mental Health Caucus to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the efforts of mental health care providers.
  • Secured grants for behavioral health services, including a $2 million grant for the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) to support the state’s programs to treat individuals with mental health and substance abuse disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Cosponsored several pieces of bipartisan legislation to address mental health disparities in rural areas and low-income communities, including H.R.884, the Medicare Mental Health Access Act, and H.R. 1109, the Mental Health Services for Students Act.

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If you or a loved one needs support during this time, behavioral health professionals are available via phone 24/7 at the New Mexico Crisis Access Line (NMCAL). You can reach them toll-free by calling 1-855-NMCRISIS (1-855-662-7474), or by downloading the NMConnect app on your iPhone or Android device.

Issues: 
Health, COVID-19 Press Releases