The City of Wheat Ridge recently invested $400,000 of its American Rescue Plan dollars into Jefferson Center for Mental Health, a local community partner, to provide resources in response to the growing demand for mental health services. Like CPR, lives can be saved if more Americans know the warning signs of mental health problems, the importance of early intervention, and how to help.
A recent study from Suicide Prevention Now found that 96 percent of U.S. adults would take action to help prevent suicide if someone close to them was thinking about it.
This new partnership will offer trainings throughout the community on how to recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to talk to loved ones about it.
As leaders, one of our most important responsibilities is protecting the health and well-being of our residents. For far too long our nation’s mental health crisis has been overlooked and those living with mental health challenges have been stigmatized. This partnership aims to increase access to resources for those who are struggling and for those who want to help a loved one. As we navigate this issue we remain committed to working with our community to ensure that our approach is well-rounded, compassionate and offers the best support.
Our $400,000 investment will provide services including a community engagement manager, professional development courses, and presentations offered throughout the Wheat Ridge community.
As a trusted partner in our communities, Jefferson Center’s expanded access to care underscores their promise to address the challenges facing so many of our neighbors.
Community-wide presentations on improving mental health and recognizing signs of mental health crisis in others will begin this coming January.
If you are struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts or know someone who is, you are not alone. Empowering people to have conversations about mental health and suicide prevention can save lives. For immediate help call 988.
Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Bud Starker at bstarker@ci.wheatridge.co.us or 303-235-2800.
