Suicide Prevention

If you’re struggling, or know someone who needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text CO to 741741. 

Death by suicide is preventable and takes support from all levels of our community. This is particularly important to the Mesa County community. The suicide death rate in Mesa County remains higher than both Colorado and the United States. Also, the rate of suicide deaths has increased over the last two years.

A group of Mesa County partners, including Mesa County Public Health, has launched a coordinated campaign to address this challenge. The goals of the campaign are to:

• Educate the community about evidence-based, simple ways to support a friend, family member, or co-worker who is experiencing emotional pain. 
• Reduce stigma in Mesa County when speaking about suicide.

Key findings from the 2022 Mesa County Suicide Report indicate:

• Suicide death is most common among working age adults, 25-64 years old. 
• Hospital visits for suicidal ideation and attempt are most common among youth and young adults under 25.
• Drugs or alcohol were involved at the time of death in nearly 75% of suicide deaths.
• Those who die by suicide have often made previous attempts. In 2022, one in four people who died by suicide had a known previous attempt.

View the full report:

2022 Suicide report.pdf

Are you concerned that someone you know may be at risk for suicide?

Your first step in helping may be as simple as learning the FACTS and warning signs.

The following signs may mean that a youth is at risk for suicide, particularly if that person attempted suicide in the past.

Feelings: Expressing hopelessness about the future.

Actions: Displaying severe/overwhelming pain or distress.

Changes: Showing worrisome behavioral cues or marked changes in behavior, including withdrawal from friends or changes in social activities; anger or hostility; or changes in sleep.

Threats: Talking about, writing about, or making plans for suicide.

Situations: Experiencing stressful situations including those that involve loss, change, create personal humiliation, or involve getting into trouble at home, in school, or with the law. These kinds of situations can serve as triggers for suicide.

If you notice any of these warning signs, you can help! 

• Express your concern about what you are observing in their behavior.
• Ask directly about suicide.
• Encourage them to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-TALK (8255). 
• Involve an adult they trust.
• Remember, if you have an IMMEDIATE concern about someone’s safety, call 911 immediately!

Learn more by visiting the Society for the prevention of teen suicide (spots) website.

Text the CRISIS Text Line

• Text CO to 741741
• Confidential
• Free 24 hours/7 days a week

Or visit the Suicide Prevention page on the Healthy Mesa County website.