LAPS NEWS

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five Americans live with a mental illness. In an effort to raise awareness about mental illness and educate the public on ways to help, NAMI has launched a “You are Not Alone” campaign during the month of May as part of Mental Health month.

Los Alamos Public Schools is supporting this campaign by providing resources and awareness. “Mental illness often carries a stigma that deters people from admitting they are suffering and need assistance,” explained Kristine Coblentz, LAPS Healthy Schools Director. “The COVID-19 pandemic is a uniquely stressful situation and may take a toll on everyone’s mental health.”

LAPS staff, students and the community are encouraged to take care of yourself now and throughout the year. The National Institutes of Health offers a wellness kit that includes categories “to support being your Healthiest Self.” You can find these tools at   https://www.nih.gov/health-information/your-healthiest-self-wellness-toolkits

If you are concerned about your own mental health, you can take a basic screening at https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools. Following screening, you will be provided with information, resources and tools to help you understand and improve your mental health.   

Los Alamos also has local resources available at https://losalamosmentalhealth.org/. “Everyone needs a little help now and then, especially during times of increased uncertainty” said Coblentz. “There are resources available in Los Alamos and online that offer support and assistance.”

 NAMI of Santa Fe is offering online information sessions, ask the expert webinars, and support groups for individuals and families who are living with or supporting someone who is living with a mental illness.  Email info@namisantafe.org to express interest. 

LAPS engages in a spectrum of prevention activities that are provided by school staff and community partners with ancillary funding support from Los Alamos County. If you would like more information, please contact Coblentz at k.coblentz@laschools.net or 505-663-2263. 

If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance with a mental health crisis, please seek support by contacting one of the following:

 

• New Mexico Crisis and Access Line – 1-855-662-7474

• New Mexico Peer-to-Peer Warm Line – 1-855-466-7100

• NM Crisis Line for Speech and/or Hearing-Impaired Callers: 1-855-227-5485

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255 

• Text HOME to 741741

• List of local therapists – https://losalamosmentalhealth.org/therapistlist/

• If you are in a life-threatening emergency, dial 911.