988 Lifeline Offers Around the Clock Holiday Support for Los Alamos Residents
On December 22, 2025 the New Mexico Health Care Authority reminded residents that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available around the clock throughout the holiday season, offering free help for mental health, emotional, and substance use crises. The reminder aims to connect people in urgent need with trained counselors and local resources, and to reduce pressure on emergency services during a high stress time.
The New Mexico Health Care Authority issued a reminder on December 22, 2025 that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available around the clock throughout the holiday season. The service offers free, compassionate, nonjudgmental support for mental health, emotional, and substance use crises and is intended for urgent needs during the holidays and year round.
The lifeline connects callers and texters with trained counselors and helps people access follow up resources in their communities. Free support is available by calling or texting 988, or by using the chat function at 988lifeline.org. Since the system launched nationwide in July 2022, it has responded to a large volume of contacts, more than 127,000 calls, texts or chats to date, reflecting growing public reliance on the service for crisis intervention.
Kari Armijo, secretary for the New Mexico Health Care Authority, emphasized community need. “During the holidays, many people are carrying more than usual, and no one should have to go through that alone,” she said. “If you need someone to listen, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 to connect you with trained counselors and support when you need it most.”
For Los Alamos County residents the lifeline provides an immediate, confidential option when a mental health crisis arises outside regular clinic hours or when emergency rooms are not the most appropriate setting. Local behavioral health providers and first responders can use 988 as a triage and referral option, potentially easing demand on emergency departments and allowing specialized teams to focus on cases requiring in person care.
The availability of 988 also carries societal implications, including reducing stigma around seeking help and expanding access for people who face barriers to traditional care. Residents experiencing suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety, substance use emergencies, or emotional distress are encouraged to use the lifeline as a first step. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for chat support, available at any hour throughout the holiday season and beyond.
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