Uncategorized
Fix archaic medical policy failing Coloradans with mental health needs | OPINION
February 20, 2024
By: Vincent Atchity
Many are aware Colorado is in a dire crisis of mental health, substance use and homelessness. We see every day too many of our friends, family members and neighbors are experiencing difficulties. We see we don’t have the proper supports and safeguards in place to stop people from experiencing preventable worst outcomes. What most are unaware of, however, is how outdated and seemingly benign policies perpetuate this vicious cycle in which so many Coloradans are trapped.
We’re constantly seeing tragic stories play out in our ...
Care, not cuffs, for substance use | OPINION
February 9, 2023
By: Vincent Atchity
It’s no secret there is a significant and growing mental health and substance use crisis in Colorado. Though some are working to address this crisis, there remain entrenched systems, policies and attitudes that harm rather than help the most vulnerable in our communities. Coloradans of all ages experience grievous harm and die prematurely in association not only with their use of alcohol, opioids and other legal and illegal substances, but with the way our community’s systems respond to them and fail to reduce the terrible harms ...
Caitlin: Learning To Live A New Life
The views and opinions expressed in the following story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mental Health Colorado.
By: Caitlin Hackett
My mental health journey began at a very young age. When I was about 3, my older sister, Maggie was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Sanfilippo Syndrome. A few years later, my brother, Keegan was born and given the same diagnosis. It’s a complicated disorder but essentially, their bodies began shutting down at a very young age, and ultimately, they would never make it to their teenage ...
Oil, Gas, and Mental Health
As of 2017, 17.6 million Americans lived within one mile of an active oil or gas well. Alongside ongoing discussion surrounding the economic and physical health impacts of oil and gas production, there must also be consideration of the impact of industrial development on the mental health of nearby communities.
HB21-1258 Testimony: April 20, 2021
The following testimony was presented to the House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee on April 20, 2021. House Bill 21-1258, a children's mental health bill, passed on a vote of 11-1. Read more about the bill here.
Vincent Atchity, President & CEO of Mental Health Colorado, testified in support of the bill on behalf of the organization.
"Good afternoon, Members of the Committee. I’m Vincent Atchity, President and CEO of Mental Health Colorado. Mental Health Colorado is a non-profit organization working to achieve healthier minds ...
Rep. Amabile: Solitary confinement is tantamount to torture. Our bill would restrict it in Colorado’s jails.
By: Rep. Judy Amabile, April 4, 2021
Originally found in the Colorado Sun
This past year has been one of loneliness and isolation for many. We have been denied the company of family and friends. The things that bring us joy and help us mark the time have been taken away. Social distancing and quarantine have taken a toll on our collective mental health.
However, as we’re isolated with Netflix and take-out, we should reflect on what it’s like to be isolated between four cement walls, with nothing but a mat on a concrete slab and a toilet. Nothing to look at but ...
Monthly Reports & Updates
Every month, Mental Health Colorado convenes our Monthly Reports & Updates meeting with Coloradans across the state who are working to disentangle mental health and criminal justice.
Each meeting features different speakers who share information about their respective efforts.
Meeting Time: third Thursday of every month at 11:30 AM
Meeting Duration: 30-45 minutes
Meeting Agenda:
11:30-11:45 AM: Presentation by community partners
11:45-12:00/12:15 PM: Questions, discussion, other participant updates
Meeting Recordings
June, 2023: Kelley ...
