SANTA FE — The New Mexico Behavioral Health Planning Council will host its 20th annual Behavioral Health Day at the State Capitol on Wednesday, Feb. 26.
This year’s theme celebrates “20 Years of Resiliency, Prevention, and Healing Together,” and highlights two decades of advocacy in mental health and substance use recovery.
Behavioral Health Day takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Capitol Rotunda, bringing together peers, family members, advocates, providers, and policymakers to highlight the importance of mental health and substance use prevention, treatment and recovery efforts. Attendees can connect with more than 40 behavioral health care organizations offering information on statewide programs and services. Naloxone kits and overdose prevention training will be available throughout the day.
A highlight of the event is honoring New Mexico’s behavioral health champions within the following award categories to recognize their outstanding contributions:
- Behavioral Health Star Awards – Honoring individuals and organizations for exceptional service in their communities.
- John Henry Support Animal Award – Recognizing the vital role of support animals in mental health and recovery.
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Celebrating a lifetime of dedication to behavioral health advocacy and service.
- Carol Luna Anderson Award – Acknowledging significant contributions to behavioral health policy and practice.
- Behavioral Health Services Division Director Award – Honoring individuals or organizations for their exceptional advocacy and commitment in strengthening statewide behavioral health efforts.
- Stanford Kemp Award – Highlighting innovative approaches to behavioral health services.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has issued a proclamation recognizing the state’s efforts to providing culturally responsive behavioral health services and its successful integration of 14 local collaboratives to strengthen community support.
Award recipients are a testament of New Mexico’s commitment to reducing stigma, increasing access to care, and promoting recovery.
Community members are invited to attend the event and celebrate 20 years of progress in behavioral health advocacy.
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