DR PARISH: Hello, I’m Dr. Brooke Parish,
an internal medicine physician, psychiatrist and executive medical director at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico,

with a message about mental health.
We understand that you may have been

through a lot this year. You may be feeling, anxious, sad or even depressed.

You may not have words for your feelings but know you are not yourself. If you feel this way,

you are not alone. Many of us still feel more stressed and anxious than usual.

Some people may have trouble with appetite,
sleeping, concentrating or other aspects of their lives.

Some may drink, use drugs or have other
unhealthful coping strategies to help with their feelings.

Please know that help is available.
Lifestyle changes, counseling, medications and

other therapies can be very helpful and
get you feeling better. Often help can even be

sought through your computer or smartphone
with health care providers that offer telehealth options.

If you are having thoughts of hurting 
yourself, please seek help immediately by

calling 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

Either of these numbers can be used nationwide.

You can also call the New Mexico
Crisis and Access Line at 1-855-NMCRISIS.

Remember, your mental health is just
as important as your physical health.

If you are struggling, have a
conversation with your health care provider.

As always, remember to talk to your health care provider about

any health questions or
concerns you may have.