ADA COUNTY, Idaho — Thousands of Idahoans who rely on mental-health services are already feeling the impact of major Medicaid reductions that took effect this week.

Erin Pineda, a mother from Garden City, said she lost access to the stabilizing mental health care she has depended on for nearly a decade.

“It’s really hard for me… and it makes me sad,” Pineda said. “It saved my life.”

WATCH | Hear more from a mother losing her care during the cuts — Mother fears losing stability as Medicaid mental-health services shrink

Pineda said she has relied on her peer-support specialist, Tedi, since surviving a suicide attempt in 2016. Over the years, Tedi helped her navigate housing insecurity, symptoms of multiple sclerosis, and the stresses of raising two children.

“Tedi has given me the to

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