Luján Visits La Clínica de Familia to Discuss Increased Need for Mental Health Services, Vaccine Equity

Las Cruces, N.M. – In recognition of National Mental Health Awareness Month, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, visited La Clínica de Familia (LCdF) in Las Cruces. During his visit, he met with CEO Virgil Medina and behavioral health professionals to discuss how the clinic is meeting the increased need for mental health services. Senator Luján also joined NM Department of Health Deputy Secretary Dr. Laura Parajon and representatives from several community outreach organizations on the LCdF mobile vaccine unit to discuss vaccinating hard-to-reach-communities, including farmworkers, rural residents, and homebound individuals.

PHOTOS: Luján Visits La Clínica de Familia in Las Cruces

“The stress, uncertainty, and loss of the COVID-19 pandemic have triggered an unprecedented rise in mental health challenges. Organizations like La Clínica de Familia are meeting the moment by expanding mental and behavioral health services to help New Mexicans cope. Today, I had the opportunity to meet with mental health providers to discuss how I can continue to support their work as a member of the Senate HELP Committee,” said Luján. “Getting shots in the arms of New Mexicans will play an important role in allowing New Mexicans to get back to normal, spend time with friends and family, and continue down the path of emotional recovery. I was pleased to hear from Dr. Parajon about how health providers are mobilizing to reach our most distant and vulnerable communities.”

Next week, Senator Luján will join the co-chairs of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus, Rep. Grace F. Napolitano (D-CA-32) and Rep. John Katko (R-NY-24), in introducing a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to recognize May as National Mental Health Awareness Month.

###