Colorado’s Behavioral Health Administration is consolidating the 988 crisis line with Colorado Crisis Services to streamline mental health support during crises. The goal is to make 988 an easier number for residents to remember when seeking immediate help. This represents a “monumental step towards building a comprehensive and accessible behavioral health system across Colorado, increasing access to care for those in need.”
Service Integration
Colorado Crisis Services have been operational since 2013, initially established in response to the Aurora theater shooting. The program has expanded significantly to provide support statewide. The 988 hotline was launched in 2022 and has already received more than 364,000 calls in Colorado alone. When someone calls crisis services, it will be automatically routed to 988 and answered by trained specialists available 24/7. Local experts will answer most Colorado calls, but in the event of significant call surges, national resources will answer to ensure all calls are handled.
Demographic Reach
Most 988 callers are between the ages of 26 and 39 years old, highlighting ongoing need for accessible mental health services. The consolidation aims to ensure that people in need can access services through one easy-to-remember number.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.denver7.com/lifestyle/health/behavioral-health-administration-working-on-streamlining-mental-health-help-in-colorado