As students and families gear up for the new academic year, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration is taking proactive steps to enhance awareness of available mental health and academic resources among student populations statewide. Two key initiatives, I Matter and the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line, are central to this effort, aiming to provide comprehensive support for students during the school year.
I Matter: A Vital Resource for Youth Mental Health
Launched in 2021, I Matter has emerged as Colorado’s flagship program dedicated to youth mental health. The program provides free, accessible mental health services, including both in-person and virtual therapy sessions. Notably, I Matter is designed to be inclusive, offering these services irrespective of individuals’ insurance status. Since its inception, I Matter has successfully facilitated nearly 70,000 free therapy sessions for over 16,000 children from all 64 counties across Colorado, significantly contributing to the mental well-being of its youth.
Parents, educators, and students are encouraged to utilize the resources available through I Matter. For those seeking to connect with a trusted mental health provider, I Matter offers a user-friendly online platform. Language accessibility has been prioritized, with resources available in both English and Spanish. Interested individuals can visit PLACEHOLDERf2b4cffd09650f4f for more information and to access services. The parallel site, PLACEHOLDER4db094cafdc9978c, caters specifically to Spanish-speaking populations, ensuring that language barriers do not impede access to essential support.
988 Colorado Mental Health Line: Immediate Help at Hand
In tandem with I Matter, the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line serves as a critical resource for those in immediate need of support for emotional, mental health, or substance use issues. The 988 line operates 24/7, providing real-time assistance to individuals facing crises or seeking guidance. This resource has recently gained prominence due to new legislation designating 988 as Colorado’s primary lifeline for mental health support.
The incorporation of the 988 resource onto student ID cards throughout the state ensures that crucial information is readily accessible, fostering an environment where seeking help is normalized. Additionally, important contact information for Safe2Tell—another vital resource for reporting anonymous tips related to safety—will also be included, further reinforcing the state’s commitment to student safety and well-being.
As the school year approaches, the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration’s initiatives reflect a larger commitment to prioritizing mental health in educational settings. With resources like I Matter and the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line, Colorado is striving to foster resilience among its youth, ensuring that students have the necessary tools to navigate academic demands and mental health challenges effectively.
