Strong minds, bright futures.
Colorado’s children and youth face a mental health crisis we can’t ignore. We call on Colorado’s gubernatorial candidates to make youth mental health a key priority in their platforms and deliver on bold solutions if elected. Our kids — and Colorado’s future — depend on it.
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Get updates on how you can support Colorado's kids.
Colorado’s child and youth mental health crisis is urgent, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Crisis in Colorado
Federal funding is fading for children’s mental health programs, leaving critical services at risk. This crisis doesn't just impact kids: It ripples across our schools, families, businesses and communities. By improving youth mental health, we can also:
Ease stress on families by making care more accessible and affordable
Reduce community strain on public safety, corrections and emergency systems
Better equip our schools and educators to support their students
Build a healthier, more resilient future workforce for our state's economy
Colorado ranks 41st in the nation for youth mental health.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for Colorado youth under 18.
About 25% of high school students report feeling consistently sad or hopeless.
10-16% of kids two to eight have been diagnosed with mental, behavioral or developmental disorders.
Why It Matters in the Race for Governor
This November, Colorado will elect its next governor. The governor of Colorado holds the power to transform this crisis into an opportunity for lasting change.
Statewide polling shows 90% of Colorado voters agree that addressing the child and youth mental health crisis is vital. The next governor has a once-in-a-generation chance to turn this nonpartisan issue into actionable solutions that build a healthier future for Colorado kids.
Bold Solutions for Colorado’s Kids
Colorado’s kids don’t need quick fixes: They deserve real, comprehensive solutions. Here’s our proposed foundation for lasting change:
Healthy Foundations for Young Minds
Every child deserves the tools to build emotional resilience early in life.
Expanded early childhood mental health services and family supports.
Equipping schools with support and training in youth mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Community-driven prevention strategies, including substance use prevention.
A Mental Health System Built for Kids
A stronger, more coordinated system ensures kids get the care they need when they need it.
Universal mental health screening for children with clear pathways to care.
Expansion of school-based health centers and pediatric behavioral health services.
Improved youth crisis care, ensuring timely interventions for high-acuity needs.
Mental Health Within Reach, Wherever You Live
Every family in Colorado deserves access to care, no matter their zip code, income or background.
Boost workforce recruitment and retention to expand mental health professional capacity.
Innovative solutions like telehealth, traveling regional specialists and a Youth Mental Health Corps to serve every corner of Colorado.
Who We Are
Mind Our Future Colorado is a statewide initiative to prioritize child and youth mental health. Led by Children’s Hospital Colorado and Healthier Colorado, and strengthened by coalition partners across the state, our mission is simple but vital: to ensure every child and family in Colorado can access the mental health care, community support and resources they need to thrive from their earliest years through adolescence and beyond.
The mental health of Colorado’s kids depends on the leadership of our next governor. It’s time to demand action for a healthier, brighter future for Colorado families.
JOIN US
Protect Colorado’s Future. Advocate for Our Kids.
The kids sent us here to hold our state’s leaders accountable.
Here’s how you can make a difference:
Sign on as a coalition partner: Join the movement demanding action from Colorado’s leaders.
Connect with us: Stay informed about upcoming events and receive updates on toolkits, resources and materials to help amplify the message and advocate for meaningful action this election.
Together, we can inspire leaders to prioritize the health of Colorado’s kids, creating a better future for every young mind.