Deming, New Mexico – Brianda Alirdz, a senior at Early College High School in Deming, faced the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic until the virus eventually impacted her during the 2021 Christmas break. Alirdz, a high achiever with a 3.9 GPA, took college-level courses through a dual credit program and experienced mental health struggles due to the effects of the virus.
In response to the mental health needs of students like Alirdz, Deming Public Schools sought to expand its counseling services through federal pandemic relief funding. By contracting with an outside company, the district was able to increase the number of licensed counselors available to students by 33%, offering bilingual support crucial in a high-poverty district near the U.S.-Mexico border.
Youth across the country, including in New Mexico, have faced significant mental health challenges in recent years. Data shows that a high percentage of high schoolers nationwide have reported feelings of hopelessness, especially among specific groups such as female students, LGBTQ+ students, and those of Hispanic descent.
New Mexico, ranking 34th in terms of youth mental health, has struggled with access to care and the prevalence of mental illness among young people. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, leading to increased mental health issues among students in Southern New Mexico, including suicidal thoughts and addiction.
Despite efforts to provide additional mental health support through outside agencies like Sol Counseling and Wellness Center, Deming Public Schools still falls short of the ideal counselor-to-student ratio recommended by the American School Counselor Association. While the additional support has been beneficial, the district continues to face limitations in meeting the needs of its student population.
As the district navigates the challenges of funding for mental health initiatives, it is essential to explore alternative sources, including potential grants from the federal government. President Biden’s Unity Agenda emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues among youth, providing funding opportunities to support programs aimed at lowering depression, hopelessness, and suicide rates.
Looking ahead, the sustainability of mental health services in Deming Public Schools remains uncertain, with funding sources needing to be carefully considered. By prioritizing the well-being of students and advocating for adequate funding from state legislators, the district aims to continue providing crucial support to students struggling with mental health challenges.
In collaboration with external agencies like Sol Counseling, the district continues to work towards improving mental health outcomes for its student population. By addressing barriers to care and adapting to the changing needs of students, Deming Public Schools remains committed to supporting the mental well-being of its students in the face of ongoing challenges.