WellPower shares 7 suicide prevention tips for Colorado

WellPower is using Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to spotlight seven warning signs and response steps as Colorado continues to rank among the top 10 states for suicide rates. The guidance is aimed at helping people start difficult conversations, connect loved ones to care and know when to call for urgent help.

Why it matters: - Colorado’s suicide crisis remains urgent, with the state still ranking among the top 10 nationally for suicide rates. - In 2024, 1,306 Coloradans died by suicide, about one person every six hours. - Suicide rates in Colorado are highest among older adults, while most suicide deaths occur among working-age adults ages 25 to 64. - WellPower is using Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to push practical guidance that can help people recognize risk and respond sooner.

What happened: - WellPower, Colorado’s largest community mental health center, shared seven facts it says everyone should know about suicide. - The guidance was released in September during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. - The organization highlighted advice on warning signs, starting conversations, staying connected and getting professional support. - Megan Bettenberg, MA, LPC, program manager of WellPower’s Zero Suicide program, said asking directly about suicide can open the door to an honest conversation.

The details: - Asking about suicide does not put the idea in someone’s head. - Suicide risk can affect people with or without a diagnosed mental health condition. - Relationship problems, financial stress, loss, chronic pain, substance use, trauma and other hard life events can contribute to suicidal thoughts. - Warning signs can include talking about suicide or death, hopelessness, feeling trapped, withdrawal, major behavior changes, increased substance use, giving away possessions or saying goodbye. - A noticeable change from someone’s usual behavior is a reason to check in. - People who respond to a disclosure do not need perfect words. - A direct response such as thanking someone for trusting you and saying, “I would be really sad if you died,” can signal care and mattering. - WellPower’s Zero Suicide program uses “caring contacts,” including calls, cards and other outreach, to stay connected after higher-risk moments. - Peer support can help people feel less alone. - Planning before a crisis matters. - People can learn about 988, identify trusted contacts and build basic crisis-response skills through programs such as Mental Health First Aid. - Marchell Taylor, a certified peer and family specialist at WellPower, said people should ask directly, listen without judgment, take concerns seriously, stay connected, help connect the person with professional support and not keep suicidal thoughts a secret. - People experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis can call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7. - People facing immediate danger or a medical emergency should call 911. - More information is available at wellpower.org/suicide-prevention.

Between the lines: - The guidance is meant to reduce hesitation, which can keep friends, family members and coworkers from acting when warning signs appear. - WellPower’s message centers on connection, not solo responsibility, and frames suicide prevention as shared support rather than one person carrying the crisis alone. - The emphasis on direct language suggests that uncomfortable conversations may still be the most effective ones.

What’s next: - WellPower is directing people to learn resources, warning signs and training before a crisis happens. - The organization is also steering the public toward 988 and other support options when risk becomes immediate. - Continued outreach during September is likely to keep suicide prevention in focus as Colorado faces elevated need.

The bottom line: - WellPower’s core message is simple: ask directly, listen carefully, stay connected and get help fast when someone may be at risk.