Youth Suicide Rate in Colorado Drops to Lowest Level since 2007

Colorado’s youth suicide rate dropped in 2024 to its lowest level since 2007, with 39 deaths (5.85 per 100,000 youth). This is a major decline compared to the peak in 2020, when 87 young people died by suicide (12.91 per 100,000). The overall suicide rate for all ages in Colorado also decreased slightly from its 2021 peak.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) credits the progress to prevention programs, statewide partnerships, and organizations working directly with youth. While it is hard to measure which efforts had the most impact, several initiatives are believed to have contributed, including:

• Sources of Strength (connecting youth with trusted adults)

• Colorado Follow-Up Project (support after hospital discharge)

• Second Wind Fund (free therapy for underinsured youth)

• Gun Shop Project (promoting firearm safety)

• 988 crisis line and I Matter Colorado (free youth mental health sessions)

• Colorado LIFTS (links uninsured people to crisis care)

  
  

State officials say every suicide is a tragedy but view the decline as a hopeful sign. They are committed to continuing and expanding prevention programs to reduce suicides further. Anyone in crisis is encouraged to call or text 988 for immediate support.

Please check out this link below for details:

https://la-h-health.colorado.gov/news-article/youth-suicide-rate-in-colorado-drops-to-lowest-level-since-2007-cdphe-committed-to