Mental Health in Colorado
In 2021, Colorado ranked the lowest of the 50 states when it came to mental health. In 2024, the Centennial State managed to climb up to 46, according to Mental Health America. In part, the state received an injection of funds, with over $94 million used to expand mental health services and combat co-occurring substance use disorders.
However, Colorado still has a long road ahead. According to the state’s Department of Public Health & Environment, suicide continues to be a leading cause of death among young people, with over 500 deaths in 2023 among individuals under 35.
The Chicago Health Institute has noted that 1 in 4 adults that same year suffered from depression, with Latinos and the LGBTQ+ community making up a disproportionate share. Nearly 60% of respondents told the institute that they could not get appointments to see a provider, and stigmas, rather than cost, deterred many others from seeking care.
1 in 4
Colorado adults who suffered from depression
46th
Colorado ranks #46 in mental health care
Nearly 60%
Respondents who were unable to see a mental health provider
Free Mental Health Resources in Colorado
NAMI Colorado provides free programs to state residents affected by mental illness, including a six-week education program for parents and caregivers, a hands-on training program teaching grassroots advocacy, and support for public safety professionals by connecting them with confidential and anonymous mental health resources.
Gay & Sober provides a directory of LGBTQ+ friendly addiction support meetings across Colorado, including Life Ring Secular recovery groups and Alcoholics Anonymous. Meetings provide a safe space for those seeking recovery, including daily online meetings to ensure accessible support for the LGBTQ+ community.
The Yarrow Collective provides free, peer-led support groups that foster community and mutual aid. Programs offer a confidential space for people to discuss suicide without judgment or groups that connect those facing similar health challenges. The Unity in Community group serves Black, indigenous, and people of color, providing a sanctuary for connection and empowerment.
The Transgender Center of the Rockies provides holistic gender-affirming services for transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive individuals. They offer trauma-informed individual and group counseling, peer-led support groups, and case management. Specialized therapy groups focus on gender identity exploration and substance use recovery.
The Colorado Behavioral Health Administration provides various programs to individuals dealing with mental health and addiction challenges. Services include inpatient and outpatient treatment, psychiatric care, and crisis intervention via a support call, text, or live chat. Walk-in crisis centers are available statewide, and Community Mental Health Centers provide free or low-cost services.
OwnPath provides a comprehensive directory of mental health and substance use treatment providers in Colorado. The platform also features a Learning Hub, with courses and training for behavioral health professionals, some of which include the Crisis Professional Curriculum and Telebehavioral Health for Neurodivergent People.
Next Chapter is a grant-funded wellness collaborative that serves veterans and their families throughout the state. They provide comprehensive counseling services, telehealth therapy, support groups, and alternative therapies. They also provide assistance with military career transitions, employment workshops, and financial coaching.
Colorado's County Veterans Service Offices provide free assistance to veterans and their families applying for federal and state benefits. Guidance on disability compensation, pensions, healthcare enrollment, and education benefits is provided. They also help with VA claims, appeals, and accessing local resources. Each county office operates independently.
The I Matter program connects youth with a therapist to receive up to six free virtual counseling sessions. Some in-person appointments are available for youth or to support parents with children experiencing a mental health or substance use disorder. Free materials are available to promote the program within your local community.
Make the Connection is an online resource that connects veterans, families, and friends with information about mental health challenges and addiction recovery. The platform features personal success stories and provides self-assessments with a locator to find local support services, facilitating access to care and support.
The Colorado Gerontological Society provides programs to older adults to promote active participation and community engagement through social and educational activities. The PACE program delivers comprehensive health services to help clients maintain independence and the Telephone Buddy Program offers human connection by pairing volunteers with seniors for regular check-ins and companionship.
The Colorado Military Veterans Project provides free online mental health care and peer support groups for veterans, active duty personnel, and their families who are dealing with gambling or gaming addiction. The initiative includes the ROTC education program aimed at providing comprehensive support and career training for the military community.
The University Psychological Services Center provides therapy and psychological evaluations through the lifespan for mental health conditions, relationship difficulties, and substance use disorders. Advanced doctoral students provide the services on the Colorado State University campus under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.
This organization offers programs that reduce suicide rates statewide. Initiatives include the Colorado-National Collaborative, a partnership aimed at implementing evidence-based strategies. They also provide resources and training for schools, healthcare providers, and communities to identify and support at-risk individuals.
The University's program offers 24/7 crisis support for students. Students can receive immediate assistance by phone which connects them with a counselor. They can also receive same-day crisis appointments by calling ahead. They provide links to local resources for counseling, crisis support, and mental health treatment centers.