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Caitlin: Learning To Live A New Life

The views and opinions expressed in the following story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mental Health Colorado. By: Caitlin Hackett My mental health journey began at a very young age. When I was about 3, my older sister, Maggie was diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Sanfilippo Syndrome.  A few years later, my brother, Keegan was born and given the same diagnosis. It’s a complicated disorder but essentially, their bodies began shutting down at a very young age, and ultimately, they would never make it to their teenage ...

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Brain Wave Legislative Wrap Up


Adam: Did I Get “Lucky”?

The views and opinions expressed in the following story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mental Health Colorado. By: Adam Weimer I was reminded recently about a term used for what I experienced during a severe bout of clinical depression while in college called “Vegetative Symptoms.” Fatigued? Check. Insomnia? Sleep was nearly impossible. Lost appetite? Trying to eat became an arduous and vigilant task. Inattention? I couldn’t follow a simple conversation lasting longer than 30 seconds or a mindless TV show, let alone a ...

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Oil, Gas, and Mental Health

As of 2017, 17.6 million Americans lived within one mile of an active oil or gas well. Alongside ongoing discussion surrounding the economic and physical health impacts of oil and gas production, there must also be consideration of the impact of industrial development on the mental health of nearby communities.

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HB21-1258 Testimony: April 20, 2021

The following testimony was presented to the House Public & Behavioral Health & Human Services Committee on April 20, 2021. House Bill 21-1258, a children's mental health bill, passed on a vote of 11-1. Read more about the bill here. Vincent Atchity, President & CEO of Mental Health Colorado, testified in support of the bill on behalf of the organization.  "Good afternoon, Members of the Committee. I’m Vincent Atchity, President and CEO of Mental Health Colorado. Mental Health Colorado is a non-profit organization working to achieve healthier minds ...

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Rep. Amabile: Solitary confinement is tantamount to torture. Our bill would restrict it in Colorado’s jails.

By: Rep. Judy Amabile, April 4, 2021 Originally found in the Colorado Sun This past year has been one of loneliness and isolation for many. We have been denied the company of family and friends. The things that bring us joy and help us mark the time have been taken away. Social distancing and quarantine have taken a toll on our collective mental health. However, as we’re isolated with Netflix and take-out, we should reflect on what it’s like to be isolated between four cement walls, with nothing but a mat on a concrete slab and a toilet. Nothing to look at but ...

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Monthly Reports & Updates

Every month, Mental Health Colorado convenes our Monthly Reports & Updates meeting with Coloradans across the state who are working to disentangle mental health and criminal justice. Each meeting features different speakers who share information about their respective efforts.   Meeting Time: third Thursday of every month at 11:30 AM Meeting Duration: 30-45 minutes Meeting Agenda: 11:30-11:45 AM: Presentation by community partners 11:45-12:00/12:15 PM: Questions, discussion, other participant updates Meeting Recordings April, 2023: Amy ...

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About Marysia Do

Though she is playfully known as “The Queen of Handstand,” Marysia has also cultivated a global reputation as the encyclopedic teacher of teachers. In addition to having studied yoga for 20 years, Marysia has a Masters in Traditional Chinese from Yo San University along with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from USC. Marysia’s offerings include her innovative and highly successful yoga app: Marysia Do Magic, the Light Warriors United Yoga Teacher Training, as well as a variety of workshops, exotic retreats and heart centered mentorships. While many believe her ability ...

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Kimberly’s Story

The views and opinions expressed in the following story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Mental Health Colorado. By: Kimberly Mock My story with depression and anxiety started with my dad’s passing in 2015. I’ve also experienced a lot of loss and am a recovering addict so there is a lot of trauma there as well, trauma that I didn’t even realize I had until I started therapy. As of today (January 2021), I have 11 years clean from heroin and opiates. I have sought out therapy before, but I would always stop after a ...

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