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 and mental health challenges.

While the program was never developed as a replacement for face-to-face care, those who are in treatment 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 on how we can improve the program!

Screening Tools: The program offers a brief, 15-question screening tool, that assesses relationship challenges, trauma, depression/mood, anxiety and addictions. Results for each area indicate “within range” or “elevated” which you can use as a guide to further assess your client.

There is also a longer screening tool (47 questions) utilizing validated screening tools: relationships (Emotional Support 18+ NIH Toolbox), trauma (PCL-5 short-form), depression/mood (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), alcohol (AUDIT-C) and drugs (DAST-10). Additional tools can be found in the library of free screening tools.

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 four modules of videos:

• Learn How Addiction Works
• 5-Actions (Tools) for Change
• Mental Health Support
• Resources (e.g., Accessing Treatment, Help for Families)

We recommend familiarizing yourself with the video titles in each module, watch those of interest, and then use during sessions/groups to stimulate therapeutic engagement or assign as homework.

Live Webinars: We periodically offer live webinars on a variety of behavioral health topics that are usually 30-45 minutes and are found in the Resources Module. They too 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).

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 they link to this program.