The tragedy of suicide affects each one of us. Together, we can save lives by working to let every man, woman and child know they are not alone. Help is a text, phone call or click away.
This week, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners formally recognized September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in Douglas County to shine a light on mental health conditions, fight stigma, provide support and educate while advocating for access to care.
“We’ve all experienced the pain of suicide,” said Douglas County Commissioner Lora Thomas. “September is when we formally recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness, but the work to truly prevent tragedies associated with suicide occurs all year long. Please consider intentionally connecting with a friend, family member or coworker. If you know someone who needs help, or if you need help, please access the variety of resources available in Douglas County. There is a list available on our website.”
For every completed suicide, thousands more seriously consider or attempt suicide, which is why Douglas County and its Mental Health Partners are highlighting the 24/7 resources available to those in crisis themselves and to anyone concerned about a friend, family member or co-worker.
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, 988. This state and nationwide number is available 24/7 by call, text or chat to connect people with trained crisis counselors. 988 can help people with thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crises, emotional distress or finding help for a loved one.
- Colorado Crisis Line, 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255. This toll-free state crisis line is also available immediately to all Coloradans in need of mental health assistance. All calls and messages get immediate, expert crisis care.
- Veterans Mental Health Services. Dedicated to serving the men and women who serve and their loved ones, the Douglas County Veterans Service Office provides mental health services to address the unique concerns of Veterans. This includes a dedicated Veteran-specific clinician who understands the challenges of our nation’s heroes.
- IMatter. This statewide program is specifically geared toward helping youth in crisis and connecting young people and their families to resources. IMatter also offers free counseling sessions through June 2024.
- Douglas County Mental Health Initiative. The DCHMI is in place to unite community partners, address unmet mental health needs, connect people to mental health services and prevent anyone in need from falling through the cracks. Find resources in and around Douglas County right now on our webpage.
In addition to highlighting resources in the community, your Board of Douglas County Commissioners supports mental health initiatives through funding, including the dedication of $9 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to mental and behavioral health programming. Read more about how these funds are being distributed on our webpage.