Colorado National Collaborative targets suicide prevention in Northeast Region 5

Elbert County officials are taking significant steps to address mental health concerns and reduce suicide rates through a collaboration with the Colorado State University Extension Center. This partnership is part of the Colorado National Collaborative, which includes neighboring counties such as Cheyenne, Kit Carson, and Lincoln.

During a recent County Commission meeting, representatives highlighted the urgent need for community engagement in suicide prevention efforts. In 2023 and 2024, Elbert County recorded 11 suicides each year, with a troubling majority involving firearms. This statistic underscores the importance of proactive measures aimed at raising awareness and providing resources to residents.

The collaborative initiative focuses on training local organizations, including firefighters and law enforcement, to better support mental health efforts. Recent training sessions held at Albert Christian Church have shown promising results, and officials are eager to expand these programs further into the community.

In addition to training, outreach efforts are underway to connect with residents directly. Monthly coffee chats and community conversations at the Pines and Plains library have been established to foster dialogue and build resilience among community members, particularly focusing on youth.

The project, which is set to run for seven months, aims to significantly reduce both suicide deaths and non-fatal attempts in Elbert County. As officials continue to work diligently on these initiatives, they emphasize the importance of community involvement in creating a supportive environment for mental health.