The New Mexico Health Care Authority will participate in the national 988 Day on September 8, 2025, aiming to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and its availability for mental health support across the state.
“Calling, texting or chatting 988 is available to every New Mexican in every moment of need,” said Nick Boukas, director of the Behavioral Health Services Division at the New Mexico Health Care Authority. “Every call, text and chat represents a moment of courage and a chance to connect people with the support they deserve.”
The 988 Lifeline provides free and confidential access to trained behavioral health professionals at any time. The observance seeks to inform more residents about this resource. This year’s theme is “Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere.” which highlights the service’s goal of making care accessible for anyone who needs it.
Since July 2022, when the lifeline began operating in New Mexico, more than 105,000 calls, texts and chats have been received. According to data from the agency, use of the lifeline has coincided with reductions in suicide deaths statewide: a 43 percent decline among Indigenous residents, a 42 percent drop among women and an overall reduction of nine percent across New Mexico within one year.
During September, several organizations including the Health Care Authority, New Mexico Peer Coalition and Recovery Communities of New Mexico will hold pop-up events throughout communities as part of both Recovery Month and National Suicide Prevention Month.
More information about the lifeline can be found at www.988nm.org.
“About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.”
“About the New Mexico Peer Coalition: The mission of the New Mexico Peer Coalition is to foster community, education, and support that is essential in balancing recovery and professional growth for peer support workers and their allies. This year, over 30 communities are hosting Recovery Celebrations to reduce stigma, connect people to resources, and encourage those struggling to seek peer support and explore recovery options. For more information and the full event calendar, visit nmpeercoalition.org.”
