September is National Suicide Prevention Month
Mental health affects every one of us, and suicide remains a leading cause of death in Colorado, especially in rural communities like ours.
In 2025, as we continue to break down stigma and expand local resources, Chaffee County is coming together to promote awareness, prevention, and healing. While we may picture suicide as something distant or uncommon, the reality is that many of us have been personally impacted, whether through family, friends, clients, or colleagues. Our rural setting adds challenges like isolation, lack of access to behavioral health care, and persistent stigma around asking for help. Colorado consistently ranks among the top 10 states for suicide deaths, with rural counties experiencing higher rates than urban areas.
Here in Chaffee County, we see the ripple effects not only in our emergency room and homes, but also in our jails and workplaces. Youth and young adults are facing unprecedented pressures related to identity,
relationships, sports, social media, and academic stress. Men, especially those 35–65, are statistically most at risk for dying by suicide, often due to unaddressed mental health concerns, substance use, or economic stressors. LGBTQ+ individuals and veterans face higher rates of suicidal thoughts due to trauma,
discrimination, or lack of support.
Behind these numbers are real people and real Chaffee County families forever changed. But there is hope, and action is happening locally to address suicide risk and promote mental wellness.
One of the programs on the front lines of supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges, suicidality, and substance use, including opioid misuse, is Chaffee County Public Health’s Behavioral Health Navigation Program. This program connects individuals to mental health support, crisis services, and recovery programs. It works in collaboration with other local efforts to strengthen suicide prevention and increase awareness around opioid abuse. Youth programs through our schools, Boys and Girls Clubs, Solvista Health and other local partners are teaching emotional regulation, resilience, and connection.
QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training is being offered to equip community members with tools to recognize warning signs and take action. 24/7 Crisis Services are available through Solvista Health, including mobile crisis response teams who meet people where they are at home, work, or school. Grief and loss support groups are available locally for those impacted by suicide or mental health loss.
In Chaffee County, local healthcare providers, therapists, and community members alike have sat with parents fearful for their children, adults overwhelmed by silent struggles, and survivors of suicide loss searching for healing. We’ve also witnessed moments of hope when someone felt seen, heard, and received the right support at just the right time. Suicide prevention isn’t just a program. It’s relationships, safety nets, and listening without judgement. Check in on friends, coworkers, and loved ones, even when they seem “fine”. Ask directly if you’re concerned about someone. You won’t “plant the idea,” and it could save a life. Share resources and normalize reaching out for help. Learn the warning signs of withdrawal,
changes in behavior, hopelessness, or sudden mood shifts.
For support, referrals, or to talk to someone:
- Available 24/7 Solvista Health Crisis Line: 719-275-2351
- Available 24/7 Call or Text 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Chaffee County Public Health 719-539-4510
Suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, co-worker, or neighbor, your presence and compassion matter.
Let’s continue to build a Chaffee County where mental health is prioritized, support is accessible, and no one has to struggle alone. It starts with one conversation. You are not alone. Hope is here.