More than 105,000 calls, texts and chats since 2022 launch
SANTA FE — The New Mexico Health Care Authority is joining the national observance of 988 Day on Sept. 8, 2025, a day of action to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and its role in supporting mental health 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.”
988 Day promotes the free and confidential lifeline that connects New Mexicans to trained behavioral health professionals any time, day or night. The goal is to make sure more people in crisis know where to turn for help. This year’s theme, Compassionate Help. Anytime. Anywhere., reflects 988’s mission of making care accessible to anyone in need.
Since its launch in July 2022, the 988 Lifeline has received more than 105,000 calls, texts and chats in New Mexico. The lifeline has been credited with helping reduce suicide deaths statewide, including a 43 percent decline among Indigenous residents, a 42 percent drop among women and a 9 percent overall reduction across New Mexico in just one year.
Throughout September, the Health Care Authority, the New Mexico Peer Coalition, Recovery Communities of New Mexico and other partner organizations will host 988 Day pop-up events in communities statewide. Many of these events align with Recovery Month and coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month, amplifying outreach and awareness in September.
Learn more about 988 in New Mexico 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.