4 results for tag: #suicideprevention
Perspective: Countering Colorado’s opioid crisis
February 9, 2025
By: Wendy Buxton-Andrade
The opioid crisis remains one of the most pressing issues facing our nation and Colorado. While we are making significant progress in confronting and mitigating the problem, opioid trafficking and addiction continues to impact families and communities in every corner of our state.
The problem has its roots in overprescription of medical opioids decades ago. People seeking relief from pain — whether from a medical condition, injury or surgery — would be prescribed opioids to manage that pain, and some would become addicted. Eventually they would seek more potent forms, and over time the problem ...
Colorado Suicide Prevention Advocacy Day Event to Be Held at Colorado State Capitol on March 12
February 20, 2025
By: Tricia Stortz
On March 12, advocates, mental health professionals, and community members will gather at the Colorado State Capitol Building, in Denver, for an event held in conjunction with Colorado Suicide Prevention Advocacy Day. Hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Colorado Chapter, Mental Health Colorado, the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Colorado, and NAMI Colorado, the event aims to drive policy discussions and strengthen mental health initiatives statewide.The event provides a platform for advocates and the public to engage directly with state legislators. Participants will share ...
Colorado leaders launch website this week to help improve the state’s mental health system
July 3, 2024
By: Tatiana Flowers
The Behavioral Health Administration will host public conversations in the coming months to help people learn to use the tool. Those dates will be published on the Behavioral Health Administration’s calendar soon.
“It’s important for a public system to have this kind of visibility to show how it’s improving access for people,” Atchity said. “And for our purposes, as advocates, it’s handy — if we can trust this to be thorough and comprehensive.”
Mental Health Colorado leaders recently released Know Your Rights information for Coloradans who need mental health and substance use services....
Report: Colorado suicide, mental health crisis lifeline system needs more work
July 1, 2024
By: Eric Galatas
Two years after the National 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was introduced, a new report by the group Inseparable says Colorado and other states have work to do in order to fully staff call centers and connect people with the care they need when they need it most. Colorado is answering just 75 percent of 988 calls, and lacks critical resources including care providers, beds and other facilities.
Vincent Atchity - CEO of Mental Health Colorado - said like many other states, Colorado is experiencing a workforce shortage. "Those people don't grow on trees," said Atchity. "So it is difficult to create a system ...
