A just and rational approach to reducing the over-incarceration of people with behavioral health issues
Throughout the United States high percentages of people booked into county jails meet the criteria for substance misuse, post-traumatic stress, major mental health disorders, or other behavioral health issues. New Mexico counties and tribal lands are not exceptions. But there are program solutions that provide appropriate public health services and decrease incarceration levels.
Community Response Teams are evidence-based community interventions proven to improve health outcomes for communities and people who need mental health, substance misuse or post-traumatic stress interventions. These multi-disciplinary teams are aligned with 988 and 911, and with law enforcement when needed. The programs allow behavioral health issues and incidents to be managed by informed peers and mental health professionals, and provide services rather than county jail bookings.
Communities that have implemented such programs show improvements in public safety and higher numbers of people connected to appropriate care. Other measurable improvements include:
- Reduction in emergency services calls
- Fewer overdoses
- Lower rates of suicide
- Decreased arrests
- Overall improvements in use of community resources
Most counties in NM have been granted access to funds to create these teams, and we can consult with you to get them operational.
Contact us to learn more and get started.
Related Resources
Resources for 12-county area in Southern New Mexico.
Rural Southern New Mexico strategic plan for opioid response.
CHI-PHI conducted behavioral health workforce planning for five rural counties.