These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1First, check for danger
Can't wake up, slow or no breathing, blue or gray lips, choking or vomiting while passed out, a seizure, or a bad fall or head injury: call 911 now.
Possible opioid overdose: give naloxone (Narcan) if there is some, call 911, and stay with them. See the guide "Someone is overdosing, or wants to stop using drugs today".
A weapon, a fight, or threats to hurt someone: step away, keep others back, and call 911.
New Mexico's Good Samaritan law protects people who call 911 for an overdose from many drug charges.
See the guide "Someone drank too much and can't stay awake (alcohol poisoning)".
2Get Mission staff
Tell Mission staff right away, quietly. The staff lead decides if the person can stay, and follows the Mission's house rules.
Do not handle it alone, and do not argue about whether they have been drinking or using.
3Stay calm and keep their dignity
Speak slowly, quietly and kindly. Use their name if you know it.
Keep a safe distance and a clear way out. Don't touch, corner or rush them.
Move the talk away from the line or the dining room if you can, so they are not embarrassed in front of others.
You can say"Hey, I'm glad you came in. I want to make sure you're okay."
You can ask"Would you like some water? Do you want to sit down for a minute?"
4If they need to come back later
You can say"Today isn't a good day to stay inside. You are welcome back tomorrow when you're feeling better."
You can say"This isn't a punishment. We just need to keep everyone safe. We still care about you."
At the Gospel MissionIf Mission staff agrees, offer a pantry bag or hygiene kit to take with them.
Never let them drive. Offer to call a friend or family member for a ride.
5When to call a crisis line instead of police
If they talk about suicide, are very upset, or seem out of touch with what is real, but are not violent, call or text 988.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
988 crisis call/text/chat
988
· 24/7
New Mexico Crisis and Access Line (NMCAL)
NM crisis line (1-855-NMCRISIS)
855-662-7474
· 24/7
New Mexico Recovery Coalition
Mobile crisis intervention team (limited)
505-469-1139
500 N. Hudson St., Unit 1953 (mailing), Silver City · Not stated
Silver City Street Outreach
Street outreach and drop-in center
575-519-5810
714 N. Bullard St. (the OASIS), Silver City · Daily 10:30am-4:00pm, depending on volunteers
6When they are sober, offer help
You can ask"Would you like to talk to someone about your drinking or using? No pressure."
At the Gospel MissionThe case worker and peer support counselors can talk with them on another day.
See the guide "Wants to stop drinking".
See the guide "Needs Narcan, fentanyl test strips or clean supplies".
More help like this
Someone is overdosing, or wants to stop using drugs todayUse when someone may be overdosing, or when someone says they want to stop using drugs (fentanyl, heroin, pills, meth or other drugs).Wants to stop drinkingUse when someone says they want to stop or cut back on drinking, or a family member asks for help with someone's drinking.Found a used needle or syringeUse when someone finds a used needle or syringe on the ground, in a park, restroom or yard, or gets stuck by one.A family member is drinking or using drugsUse when someone is worried about a spouse, child, parent or friend who drinks too much or uses drugs.Someone drank too much and can't stay awake (alcohol poisoning)Use when someone has been drinking heavily and is passed out, can't be woken, is throwing up while barely awake, or is breathing slowly or strangely.Wants to stop using methUse when someone says they want to stop or cut down on methamphetamine (meth, ice, crystal) or other stimulants.
See all guides in Helping a neighbor →
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.