March 2018 
 
Behavioral Health: Let’s Talk About It!

In the third quarter of 2017, we conducted a survey to gather your feedback on the Blue Review. We are pleased to know that the content we provide in the newsletter is useful and presented in a user-friendly format. We were also pleased that so many of you responded with specific feedback about what you would like to see improved. Many of you asked for more information about behavioral health, and we want you to know that we heard you.

It’s no secret that behavioral health issues are often kept quiet by those who are being treated for them. Sadly, some people may be unaware they have a treatable condition, or they may not have the support they need to find appropriate care. While embracing diversity may be a growing initiative in many work places, schools and other environments, persons with behavioral health conditions may still find themselves on the periphery as the social stigma surrounding mental health persists.

The first step to bridging the gap may be simply talking about behavioral health more. People with behavioral health issues should not feel embarrassed to come forward, particularly when it comes to reaching out to friends, family and health care providers who can help. To help get the discussion started, we’ll be including more articles on behavioral health topics in the Blue Review over the coming months.

This month, we’re spotlighting an article from our online magazine, Making the Health Care System Work. The Intersection of Physical and Behavioral Health Care explores some of the ways in which behavioral health and physical health symptoms can fuel each other, as well as some of the ways data analytics are helping Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) further integrate behavioral health.

In future issues of the Blue Review, we’ll also be including more information on the behavioral health program at BCBSNM, which seeks to help identify members who may need education, care coordination and other types of support to help them better manage their health. We look forward to sharing information and resources with you that you can share with your patients who may be unaware, or who may know of someone else who may need help.