Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Home / Colorado,Department,Mental,Health

Colorado Department Of Mental Health

  • Introduction to Colorado Department of Mental Health
  • Mission and Vision of Colorado Department of Mental Health
  • Services offered by Colorado Department of Mental Health
  • Community Mental Health Centers in Colorado
  • Colorado State Hospital
  • Mental Health Laws in Colorado
  • Colorado Mental Health Boards and Commissions
  • Mental Health Initiatives in Colorado
  • How to access mental health services in Colorado
  • Resources for Mental Health support in Colorado

Introduction to Colorado Department of Mental Health

The Colorado Department of Mental Health (CDMH) is a state agency responsible for providing mental health services to the people of Colorado. The agency was established in 1963 and has since been working towards improving mental health outcomes in the state. CDMH provides a wide range of services that cover prevention, treatment, and recovery for individuals with mental health challenges. The agency operates through a network of community-based mental health centers, hospitals, and other facilities. It also works in close collaboration with other state agencies, local governments, and community organizations to ensure that all Coloradans have access to quality mental health care.

Mission and Vision of Colorado Department of Mental Health

The mission of the Colorado Department of Mental Health is to promote mental wellness, prevent mental illness, and improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. The agency envisions a Colorado where everyone has access to mental health services that are comprehensive, integrated, and culturally responsive. CDMH aims to achieve its goals by providing evidence-based, person-centered, and recovery-oriented mental health services that are accessible, affordable, and equitable to all Coloradans.

Services offered by Colorado Department of Mental Health

CDMH provides a wide range of mental health services that are designed to meet the diverse needs of the people of Colorado. Some of the services offered by the agency include:

  • Mental health screening and assessment
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
  • Crisis intervention and stabilization
  • Case management and care coordination
  • Peer support and advocacy
  • Education and training
  • Prevention and early intervention programs
  • Community outreach and engagement

These services are provided through a network of community-based mental health centers, hospitals, and other facilities. CDMH also partners with other organizations to provide specialized services such as substance abuse treatment, forensic mental health services, and child and adolescent mental health services.

Community Mental Health Centers in Colorado

CDMH operates a network of 17 community-based mental health centers across the state. These centers provide a wide range of mental health services to individuals, families, and communities. They offer services that are culturally responsive and tailored to meet the unique needs of the people they serve. The community mental health centers also provide education, training, and support to help individuals and families build resilience and improve their mental wellness. Some of the services offered by the community mental health centers include:

  • Outpatient therapy and counseling
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
  • Case management and care coordination
  • Crisis intervention and stabilization
  • Peer support and advocacy
  • Substance abuse treatment
  • Child and adolescent mental health services
  • Forensic mental health services

Colorado State Hospital

The Colorado State Hospital (CSH) is a psychiatric hospital operated by CDMH. It provides inpatient mental health services to individuals who require intensive treatment and support. CSH has a capacity of 551 beds and serves individuals from across the state. The hospital provides a range of services, including psychiatric evaluation, medication management, individual and group therapy, occupational therapy, and recreational therapy. It also has specialized units for individuals with developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, and forensic mental health needs.

Mental Health Laws in Colorado

Colorado has several laws that govern the provision of mental health services in the state. The most important of these laws include:

  • The Colorado Mental Health Code (CMHC): This is the primary law that governs the provision of mental health services in the state. The CMHC outlines the rights of individuals with mental health challenges, the procedures for involuntary commitment, and the standards for the delivery of mental health services.
  • The Protection of Persons from Restraint Act: This law regulates the use of restraints and seclusion in mental health facilities to protect the safety and dignity of individuals receiving mental health services.
  • The Children's Mental Health Treatment Act: This law provides for the provision of mental health services to children and adolescents in Colorado.
  • The Mental Health Parity Act: This law requires health insurance plans to provide equal coverage for mental health and physical health services.

Colorado Mental Health Boards and Commissions

CDMH works in close collaboration with several boards and commissions to promote mental health in Colorado. These include:

  • The Colorado Behavioral Health Planning and Advisory Council: This council advises the Governor and CDMH on matters related to mental health and substance abuse services in the state.
  • The State Innovation Model Behavioral Health Integration Workgroup: This workgroup promotes the integration of mental health and physical health services in Colorado to improve health outcomes and reduce costs.
  • The Mental Health Advisory Board: This board advises CDMH on matters related to mental health policy, planning, and service delivery in Colorado.
  • The Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission: This commission works to reduce suicide rates in Colorado through prevention, intervention, and postvention activities.

Mental Health Initiatives in Colorado

CDMH is involved in several initiatives aimed at improving mental health outcomes in Colorado. Some of these initiatives include:

  • The Colorado Behavioral Health Task Force: This task force was established in 2019 to develop a plan for the transformation of Colorado's behavioral health system. The task force is working to improve access to care, increase workforce capacity, and promote innovation in mental health services.
  • The Colorado State Innovation Model: This initiative aims to transform the healthcare system in Colorado by promoting the integration of mental health and physical health services. The goal is to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
  • The Colorado Crisis Services System: This initiative provides a statewide network of crisis services that are available 24/7. The services include crisis hotlines, walk-in crisis centers, and mobile crisis response teams.
  • The Zero Suicide Initiative: This initiative aims to reduce suicides in Colorado by implementing evidence-based practices for suicide prevention in healthcare settings.

How to access mental health services in Colorado

Accessing mental health services in Colorado is easy and straightforward. Individuals can contact their local community mental health center or hospital to schedule an appointment. They can also contact the Colorado Crisis Services hotline at 1-844-493-TALK (8255) for immediate help. Most mental health services in Colorado are covered by health insurance, including Medicaid. Individuals who do not have insurance can receive services on a sliding scale based on their income.

Resources for Mental Health support in Colorado

There are several resources available for individuals and families seeking mental health support in Colorado. These include:

  • The Colorado Crisis Services hotline: This hotline is available 24/7 and provides crisis intervention, emotional support, and referrals to mental health services.
  • The Mental Health Colorado website: This website provides information on mental health conditions, treatment options, and resources for mental health support in Colorado.
  • The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Colorado: This organization provides education, support, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges.
  • The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment: This agency provides resources and information on mental health promotion, prevention, and treatment in Colorado.

Conclusion

The Colorado Department of Mental Health is committed to promoting mental wellness, preventing mental illness, and improving the quality of life for individuals and families affected by mental health challenges. The agency provides a wide range of services that are accessible, affordable, and culturally responsive. It also works in close collaboration with other organizations to promote mental health initiatives and improve mental health outcomes in Colorado. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health challenge, do not hesitate to seek help. There are many resources available to provide support and assistance.

People Also Ask about Colorado Department of Mental Health

What is the Colorado Department of Mental Health?

The Colorado Department of Mental Health is a government agency that provides mental health services to residents of Colorado.

What types of mental health services does the department provide?

The department provides a wide range of mental health services including counseling, therapy, medication management, crisis intervention, and support groups.

How can I access mental health services through the department?

You can access mental health services through the department by contacting your local community mental health center or by calling the Colorado Crisis Services hotline at 1-844-493-TALK (8255).

Is there a cost for mental health services provided by the department?

The cost of mental health services provided by the department varies depending on your insurance coverage and financial situation. The department offers a sliding fee scale for those who cannot afford to pay for services.