Broomfield proclaims Mental Health Awareness Month; youth groups, programs highlighted

The City and County of Broomfield proclaimed May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month and heard presentations from public health staff and local youth groups describing prevention work, peer support and available services.

Gretchen Smith of Broomfield Public Health and Environment said youth mental health has been identified as a top community concern in recent local assessments and cited 2023 Healthy Kids Colorado data showing nearly one in four high‑school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness and roughly 11% reported seriously considering suicide. Smith said local partners and coalitions are prioritizing prevention and access to care and that state and local programs have expanded services for youth.

Speakers described several local efforts: Communities That Care (CTC) coordinates prevention strategies aimed at reducing youth substance use and improving mental well‑being; the community’s I Matter partnership offers free therapy for youth and had provided services to nearly 300 Broomfield youth, as stated in the briefing; and student‑led groups such as Sources of Strength at Broomfield High School shared school‑based peer support activities and outreach campaigns.

Student speakers described peer‑led campaigns, monthly themes and school events intended to reduce stigma and connect students to resources. The Broomfield Youth Advisory Council described grantmaking for local nonprofits that support youth mental health, listing four organizations selected to receive funds this year.

Council members and several residents thanked youth presenters and public‑health staff and highlighted local programs such as the state I Matter site (iMattercolorado.org) as a free treatment resource for youth.

This item was a proclamation and informational presentation; no formal budget action was taken at the meeting.