Our Colorado kids’ mental health matters.
That’s why Colorado’s new I Matter program matters now more than ever. The new program offers three free mental health counseling sessions each year for Coloradans ages 18 and younger. It’s offering the same counseling options for those 21 and younger who are receiving special education services. The visits will be with a licensed behavioral health clinician, primarily via telehealth.
Lawmakers approved $9 million dollars to start the I Matter program, in response to what researchers call a youth mental health crisis. Governor Jared Polis signed a bipartisan bill to create the program, with one-time money, that’s part of the administration’s Colorado Comeback roadmap. I Matter is funded and administered by the Colorado Department of Human Services, Office of Behavioral Health. The program is funded until June 30, 2022.
Children’s Hospital Colorado declared a pediatric mental health emergency in May as suicide attempts and psychiatric help calls for children spiked.
How ‘I Matter’ Works
If you’ve ever said, ”I’m struggling. I want help,“ you are in the right place. The purpose of I Matter is to promote youth emotional and mental health. To begin, you will need to take a survey. Try to be honest as possible: your answers are completely confidential and will help match you with a clinician who can best support you. No matter your responses, you will be eligible for 3 free counseling sessions.
Get started here. If you’re 11 or younger, your parent or guardian will have to fill out the survey with you.
Parents, if you feel your child is struggling and needs help, you are in the right place to talk to a mental health professional for free. Seeking support for your child is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength. Start by filling out the survey below.
How to Connect with Your Teens NOW
Many parents don’t know when their kids are struggling. Be proactive NOW! Forward Together, a Colorado-based campaign is a fantastic resource to help youth feel more connected – to their peers, their parents, and other trusted adults in their lives — and to help parents connect with teens.
There are several elements that make relationships powerful in young people’s lives, according to research.
- Express Care. Show me that I matter to you.
- Challenge Growth. Push me to keep getting better.
- Provide Support. Help me complete tasks and achieve goals.
- Share Power. Treat me with respect and give me a say.
- Expand possibilities. Connect me with people and places that broaden my world.
Learn hands-on tips for how to better connect with your kids through Forward Together!
Author: Mile High Mamas
