Posts in Teens
A Deep-Rooted Relationship of Substance Abuse and Suicide in Colorado

Our hearts grow weary and our minds speed up as we desperately search for an answer to end Colorado’s suicide crisis. In looking for that answer—the one that will save lives and improve the social determinants of health within our cities—we consider various risk-factors that gravely affect the well-being of the people who live here: limited mental health services, high rates of illicit drug use and substance use disorders, exposure to violent crime and/or abuse, access to weapons and/or firearms, and even a low percentage of high school graduates. Yes, further examination of and increased efforts put forth on account of the above risk-factors are critical for suicide prevention, but also, for addressing the mental health stigma that still exists today.

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Teen Talk: Suicide Prevention

Although a difficult and quite often heart-wrenching topic to discuss, teen suicide continues to be a prevalent issue in today’s society with rates steadily increasing throughout many parts of the United States. In 2019, PBS quoted a study by the Journal of the American Medical Association that found: “The rate of U.S. adolescents and young adults dying of suicide has reached its highest level in nearly two decades” (Frazee & Morales, 2019). For this reason, it’s obligatory we spread awareness about teen suicide while increasing preventative measures to save lives. Whether you’re a teen that is experiencing suicidal thoughts and not sure where to turn; a parent of a teen who is displaying worrisome behaviors or showing warning signs of suicide; or if you know of someone in your life who is currently struggling with their mental health: there is hope.

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The Troubling Truth of Teen Suicide in Colorado

Colorado: a place of beauty, adventure, serenity, and family. Whether looking to book your next fun-filled family vacation near the picturesque Rocky Mountains or in need of a peaceful place to re-center—surrounded by the many breathtaking lakes and reservoirs—it’s safe to say Colorado has you covered. The beauty that exists throughout the stunning Centennial State cannot be overlooked, or in any way debated; still, there’s a darkness that lingers over colorful Colorado: a darkness that needs to be brought to light on a state-level, as well as a national one. We’re talking about teen suicide.

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