Suicide is a community issue. Research has shown that individuals are less likely to attempt suicide or to die by suicide in communities that support, care for, and affirm all of their members. The goal of the Suicide Prevention Commission is to help build such a community across Colorado, ending the loss of life to this preventable cause.
The Suicide Prevention Commission (or the Commission) was created in 2014 (per C.R.S. §25-1.5-111) to provide collaborative leadership for suicide prevention efforts. The Commission underwent its 10-year sunset review in 2024. Based on the Department of Regulatory Agencies recommendation, the legislature extended the work of the Commission another ten years through the passing of House Bill 24-1252. The Commission makes data-driven and evidence-based recommendations for Colorado and serves in an advisory capacity to the Colorado Office of Suicide Prevention. Housed in the Prevention Services Division of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Office of Suicide Prevention is designated the lead entity for suicide prevention efforts in the state. The Commission provides public (government) and private (businesses and non-governmental organizations) leadership for suicide prevention in Colorado. The Commission relies on compelling data and real-life experiences of people impacted by suicide, including those who have attempted suicide and/or lost a loved one by suicide to establish suicide prevention priorities for Colorado. Professionals across Colorado and leading national suicide prevention organizations. The Commission also draws on the dedication of professionals across Colorado and by leading national suicide prevention organizations to inform these priorities.
Suicide impacts individuals of every race, age, nationality, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, gender identity, and ability in Colorado. The Commission is committed to equity. Coloradans deserve suicide prevention efforts that not only protect all people in the state but also ones that address the roots of the issues that place people at risk of suicide.
Related programs
- The Office of Suicide Prevention. (webpage)