Children's Hospital Colorado

Colorado’s Youth Mental Health Crisis

A school-aged girl embraces her mother at home.

What we're seeing

How we're taking action

Children’s Hospital Colorado is taking the lead to address the youth mental health crisis in our state. And we’re just getting started. Here are several ways we're taking action to improve the mental health system and save lives.

Responding to kids in need

In May 2021, we declared a youth mental health “state of emergency” and held a media town hall to sound the alarm.

Blazing a trail for kids

Children’s Colorado appointed Ron-Li Liaw, MD, as our inaugural Mental Health-in-Chief, the first known position of its kind at a children's hospital.

Fighting for kids everywhere

Our leaders joined the Children's Hospital Association and more than 200 children's hospitals across the nation in urging Congress to enact legislation and increase funding to address a nationwide mental health emergency in children and teens.

Advocating for improved care — and prevention

With our partners, we advocated for nearly $150 million in state funding to directly support children and youth mental health by investing in schools, primary care and the community, so children get the help they need before they experience a crisis.

"I think we forget that one person can help another. It’s small, little things: How can you, individually, help make a difference?"
Luthien, Patient Ambassador

Ways to help with children's mental health

Of course, our work is far from over. Now, we need your help to address Colorado’s youth mental health crisis. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get involved and make a difference.

A teen hugs his mother

Invest in a better future for kids

Children can’t wait for a better mental health system. Help give our kids and teens the care they need, when they need it, by making a financial donation.

Give today

Learn about the impact of giving

Advocate for children’s mental health needs

Lawmakers and community leaders need to hear from you. We make it easy to speak up for kids' mental health needs through petitions, emails to lawmakers and more.

Take action now

Join our advocacy network

Help fund prevention and treatment

Do you want to raise money for youth mental health and connect with your community? Start a crowdfunding project or host a fundraiser with Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation.

Find ways to fundraise

Fun and funds

Would you like a fancy night out or a thrilling bike ride in the mountains that also benefits children’s mental health? We have you covered.

Find an event

A mom and her teenage son have a heart-to-heart while walking outdoors.

Share resources with your network

Children's Colorado is proud to share a new resource to help families and community members understand pediatric mental health conditions and improve mental wellness for our youth.

Browse family mental health resources

Spread the word: mental health is health

It's OK to not be OK. Watch and share this video to help us break the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Youth mental health in the news

  • Colorado Sun
    Addressing mental health challenges of children during COVID-19
    May 03, 2020

    It’s normal for children and teens to feel frightened and confused during a public health crisis like COVID-19. Dr. Jessica Hawks shares tips for calming their anxiety and encouraging healthy communication throughout the pandemic.

  • Denverite
    Children’s Colorado Health Pavilion announces Resource Connect
    December 06, 2019

    The program provides families with resources on food, housing and other challenges not always thought of as medical, but that largely impact health.

  • CBS4
    Impact of child and teen vaping in Colorado
    August 29, 2019

    Public health agencies have identified hundreds of vaping-related respiratory illnesses across the country. Pediatric pulmonologist Robin Deterding, MD, explains the common symptoms in these cases and what all kids should know about the risks of e-cigarettes.