Behavioral Health Day at the Legislature

Behavioral Health Day at the Legislature

New Mexico behavioral health stars to be recognized during 16th annual event

Feb. 7, 2022

SANTA FE – The New Mexico State Legislature will celebrate Behavioral Health Day virtually, Feb 9,  and will honor 21 New Mexicans for their contribution to championing behavioral health in their communities.

“It is necessary to uplift and honor the dedicated individuals, service providers, and peers who are doing the work in their communities,” said Bryce Pittenger, CEO of the Behavioral Health Collaborative. “They fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.”

The purpose of Behavioral Health Day is to recognize and honor these stars who, personally or by service to others, challenge and overcome the adversity and stigma of behavioral health conditions and become advocates in their communities by educating others and normalizing mental health. These individuals help countless people suffering with mental health, substance use and/or co-occurring conditions and continuously make a positive impact in the lives of many New Mexicans.

“The individuals and programs being recognized this year provide a critical need to their respective communities,” said Neal Bowen, PhD, Behavioral Health Services Division Director. “We are thankful for their service and dedication in making a difference. They truly are behavioral health stars.”

WHAT: 16th Annual Behavioral Health Day at the Legislature 

WHO: Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Lt. Gov. Howie Morales, HSD Sec. David Scrase, NM Behavioral Health Collaborative CEO Bryce Pittenger, HSD/BHSD Director, Dr. Neal Bowen, Behavioral health stars from around New Mexico

WHEN: Wednesday, February 9, 2022, from  9 –11:30 a.m.

WHERE: Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89324929119?pwd=aUVURm1Ed1M5V0ZVVUVUY0lDbVlYdz09
Passcode: 102638

We talk, interpret and smile in all languages.We provide written information to our customers in both English and Spanish and interpretation services are available in 58 languages through our provider, CTS Language Link. For our hearing, and speech impaired customers, we utilize Relay New Mexico, a free 24-hour service that ensures equal communication access via the telephone to individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind or speech disabled. 

The Human Services Department provides services and benefits to 1,051,755 New Mexicans through several programs including: the Medicaid Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Child Support Program, and several Behavioral Health Services. 

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