As Douglas County designates May as Mental Health Awareness Month, local officials are doubling down on mental health support for their residents. In a recent resolution adopted by the Board of Douglas County Commissioners, the importance of mental health resources was highlighted with a comprehensive approach that aims to openly tackle the stigma still clinging to mental well-being. "Everybody has mental health. The mental health professionals here in Douglas County show up in force for the issues that mean the most to our communities," Commissioner Abe Laydon said, as obtained by the Douglas County.
In 2023, the Colorado Health Institute’s Health Access Survey brought to light that over 18% of Douglas County residents reported struggling with poor mental health. This translates to some 70,000 individuals feeling unwell regularly, an alarming statistic that further underscores the need to readily acknowledge and address mental health concerns within the community. Among the efforts made stands the establishment of a dedicated three-digit mental health line—988. This easily remembered number is intended to provide instant support at the press of a button, a significant stride forward for mental health accessibility.
The impact of mental health issues not only encircles adults but also affects children as well, with one in six U.S. kids facing a mental health condition each year. Resources are being emphasized within the county, such as the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative's resource webpage and the ImatterColorado.org site, where residents can seek free assessments and counseling for their children. Further care for veterans is available via DouglasVeterans.org, offering a solid network of targeted support and resources to those who have served.
Since its inception in 2014, the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative has grown into a robust assembly with over 50 members. It spearheads programs to aid individuals with mental and behavioral health challenges. Notable outcomes from this initiative include the Community Response Teams (CRTs), which have successfully served more than 9,900 people. These efforts aim not only to provide immediate assistance but also to positively influence emergency response costs by preventing an estimated 1,700 emergency room visits and nearly 626 jail bookings for mental health crises. Echoing the sentiments of triumph, Commissioner George Teal told Douglas County, "The work that Douglas County has done on mental health has been remarkable. I consider myself privileged and fortunate that I was able to come on board when I did and see the success that has been achieved over the years."
