The NM 5-Actions Program was originally developed to help those struggling with addiction but not able to access care. We first launched the platform during the pandemic in November 2020 when treatment largely transitioned to virtual sessions. Since that time we have continued to adapt the program to those in need of help with addiction.

About two years ago, we added a number of questions at sign-up to better understand who was using the program and learned that professionals (e.g., counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, physicians, criminal justice) accounted for about a quarter of all users. As we delved deeper into this outcome, we learned that many of you use the program adjunctively as a (free) tool to support clients change efforts.

While the program was never developed as a replacement for face-to-face care, those who are in treatment with you may benefit from the adjunctive support it offers. This guide provides suggestions on how you might incorporate it in your work, but feel free to adapt it to your clients however you see fit. And please reach out if you have ideas how we can improve the program.

Screening Tools: The program offers multiple tools to screen for addictions and co-occurring mental health issues. On the dashboard is an integrated screening tool  “Assessment of Symptoms” which includes validated screening tools for relationships (Emotional Support 18+ NIH Toolbox), trauma (PCL-5 short-form), depression/mood (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), alcohol (AUDIT-C), drugs (DAST-10), and behavioral addictions. Completing the assessment takes minutes and provides a summary of symptoms in graphical format that you may find useful in your evaluation efforts. Additional tools can be found in our free resource library.

Educational Videos: The program includes over 100 3-5 minute videos, as well as a number of longer webinars on a range of topics that may emerge with clients. There are two broad buckets of videos, those focused on helping clients understand addiction (see How Addiction Works in the menu), and those aimed at helping clients change behavior (see 5 Actions (Tools) for Change in the menu). As you familiarize yourself with the program, keep track of specific videos and where they are located in the program to offer clients as homework between sessions. Or watch the videos together in session and use to stimulate therapeutic engagement.

Live Webinars: We periodically offer live webinars on a variety of behavioral health topics, and post them all (for free) in the video library. We have also incorporated them into the NM 5-Actions Program where they fit best. These longer videos, usually 30-45 minutes by a variety of experts, can be used as homework between sessions or as educational content in group therapy settings (depending on the timeframe of the group).

New Mexico Crisis and Access Line (NMCAL) (1-855-662-7474): If clients are having an immediate behavioral health crisis they can call 988, but these calls may or may not be routed to NMCAL which has access to local support resources. Between sessions, ensure clients are aware of this support, which includes help with addressing relapse triggers, locating self-help meetings, gaining access to prescribers of psychiatric and addiction medications, and getting help with housing, food, or issues with safety. This line is available 24/7.

Peer-to-Peer Warmline Support (855-466-7100): Encourage clients who may benefit from peer support to use the New Mexico Peer-to-Peer Warmline and talk with someone who has lived experience with addiction and can help them on the path to recovery. Each call taker has completed the state certified Office of Peer Recovery and Engagement Peer Program, as well as received training on the New Mexico 5-Actions Program. Clients can access warmline support from 7am – 11:30pm (MDT) and can text 6pm-11:30pm (MDT).

NM Connect App: The NM Connect App provides your clients a toolbox of resources right at their fingertips (on their phone) when they need support most. The app is free to download and connects directly with NMCAL and warmline support. It offers additional educational tools to address stress, sleep, depression, and anxiety.

Help for Loved Ones: Addiction does not occur in a bubble and often leads to significant stress on family members, friends, co-workers, and the broader community. While you may or may not work with these groups, be aware that the NM 5-Actions Program offers access to a number of helpful tools utilizing the evidence-based intervention CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training Approach). Familiarize yourself with the available resources, and how it links to this program.