The Need is Great
Our Voices Must Be Greater
More than one million Coloradans experience a mental health or substance use condition each year, yet the majority go without treatment. Our state faces a profound crisis, but these numbers are not just statistics—they are our neighbors, our family members, and ourselves. Your voice is essential to create the change our communities deserve.
A Statewide Challenge
Colorado has the second-highest prevalence of mental illness in the United States, and more than one in four adults (27.7%) reported poor mental health in 2025.
Barriers to Access
860,000 Coloradans said they needed mental health care in 2025 but could not get it. The single biggest barrier was the financial cost of care.
Youth in Crisis
While Colorado has seen some improvements, 40% of high school students still report persistent sadness or hopelessness, and the state has invested heavily in programs like “I Matter” to provide free therapy sessions for youth.
Rural Disparities
Suicide rates in rural Colorado are significantly higher than in urban areas, highlighting the critical need for heightened awareness and prevention across the entire state.
One Voice is a Ripple
Together, We Are a Wave
The Brain Wave is Mental Health Colorado’s statewide network of nearly 2,000 grassroots advocates who are the driving force behind our policy work. We are not a clinical program or a therapy service. We are a powerful, organized community of people with lived experience, family members, providers, and passionate allies. We believe that those closest to the problem are closest to the solution. By sharing our personal stories with lawmakers, the media, and community partners, we illustrate the real-world barriers to care, exemplary improvements in practice, and build the unstoppable momentum needed to create systemic change.
We Give You the Training
You Provide the Voice
Becoming a powerful advocate doesn’t happen overnight, and you don’t have to do it alone. As a Brain Wave member, you will have the opportunity to work with Mental Health Colorado’s expert staff. We provide a variety of in-person and webinar trainings, one-on-one coaching, and all the tools you need to effectively and confidently influence local and state policies.
We’ll Teach You How To…
Persuade your elected officials effectively.
Shape public policy and understand the legislative process.
Engage with the news media.
Advocate for change in your local community.
Illustrate barriers to care through lived experience.
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Download the Brain Wave toolkit today and take the first step on your journey to making waves for mental health in Colorado.
Ready to make a difference?
The movement for healthier minds across the lifespan is powered by voices like yours. Join us and turn your experience into action.