The Los Alamos County Health Council convened on June 5, 2025, to discuss critical partnerships and strategies aimed at enhancing social services and crisis response in the community. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration among various agencies to address the diverse needs of residents effectively.

The session began with a discussion on the spectrum of services available through social services, emphasizing the limitations faced by the small team of five staff members. To bridge the gaps, the council has established partnerships with organizations such as the Department of Workforce Solutions, which offers job coaching and resume assistance, and the Esperanza domestic violence shelter, which will provide on-site support twice a month.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the collaboration between social services, law enforcement, and emergency medical services (EMS). The council noted the challenges faced when police conduct wellness checks, often initiated by family members living outside Los Alamos. The discussion underscored the need for a more integrated approach to ensure that individuals in distress receive appropriate support without compromising safety.

The council also explored the potential of the 988 mental health emergency response line, which has been established nationwide. The conversation included insights from a recent national conference on crisis response networks, particularly for rural areas. The council acknowledged the complexities of creating a 24/7 crisis response system in a geographically small but resource-limited community.

Various models of crisis response were examined, including the integration of social workers with police and EMS personnel. The council discussed the importance of having trained professionals available to respond to mental health crises, as well as the need for a regional behavioral health triage facility to streamline care for individuals in crisis.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore collaborative efforts with neighboring counties and state initiatives aimed at improving behavioral health services. The council expressed optimism about the potential for developing a comprehensive crisis response system that aligns with regional needs and state goals. As the council continues to engage with community partners, the focus remains on building a robust support network for residents facing mental health challenges.