New Mexico Junior College
Contact Information
Kelly Rueda
Counselor
Ben Alexander Center
575-492-2576
Brittany Perez
Counselor
Ben Alexander Center
575-492-2574
NMJC Help Desk
575-492-2577
Guidance Center of Lea County
575-393-3168
NMJC Public Safety
575-399-2033
Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Mental Health
NMJC Counseling would like to extend our support to our students as we move through this challenging time in which so many individuals are being impacted by COVID-19. There are a variety of reactions which can occur, including (but not limited to) fear, anxiety, stress, confusion, isolation, uncertainty, and depression. We acknowledge the impact this can have on mental health and we encourage our NMJC students to follow the CDC’s recommendations which include:
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
For tips on social distancing and typical reactions visit; https://www.nmcrisisline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/tips-social-distancing-quarantine-isolation-031620.pdf
CDC: Coping with Disaster or Trauma
Suicide Prevention Hotline
WHO - Coronavirus
During regular business hours (M-F 8:00-5:00), stop by the Ben Alexander Center and speak with a Counselor.
NMJC Counselors will provide referral for students in need of ongoing counseling services.
Crisis Services
If you are a student in immediate crisis and one of the following applies to you:
- You feel you are in immediate danger of harming yourself
- You feel you are in immediate danger of harming someone else
- You have recently been assaulted or had a traumatic experience
Please call:
- NMJC Public Safety at 575-399-2033 or 911
- After hours contact The Guidance Center of Lea County at 575-393-3168.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
- New Mexico Crisis and Access Line http://www.nmcrisisline.com/
