Strong Bonds Offer Hope Amid Rising Suicide Rates In Colorado

Residents in Western Colorado are getting their first look at the Annual Mesa County Suicide Report for 2024, and the news is not what we had hoped for. 50 lives were lost to suicide in Mesa County last year, a number that is higher than both the National and Colorado averages.

The numbers in this report are more than statistics because they represent our family members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Keep reading to learn more about the 2024 report and how it can help us care for our community in a more meaningful and lasting way.

What the Numbers Reveal

According to the report, 50 people took their own lives in Mesa County in 2024, a number that matches the 10-year average. KJCT8 estimates this translates to 31 deaths per 100,000 residents, well above the national average of 13.9 and Colorado’s state-wide average of 21 per 100,000.

Mesa County health officials indicate the suicide rates are not climbing, but they are not going down either. Data shows groups most affected by suicide are men, working-age adults, LGBTQ+ residents, and veterans.

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call anytime, day or night, to connect with trained counselors. Just dial 988.
•  Crisis Text Line – Text CO to 741741 for free, confidential support by text.
• Mesa County Suicide Prevention Coalition – Find local initiatives, events, and ways to get involved.
• Mesa County Public Health – Suicide Prevention Resources – Local data, programs, and support tools.

Youth Mental-Health Alarming Trends

Read More: Did You Know That Colorado Allows Physician-Assisted Suicide?

The part of the report that stood out to me the most was the strain on youth mental health here in Mesa County. Nearly half of students in grades 6–12 said they often feel sad, stressed, or rarely happy. The report also shows that emergency room visits are highest among ages 10–24, with girls 1.5 times more likely than boys to seek help.

The good news? Kids who feel like they can turn to their parents for support are far less likely to struggle. Feeling a sense of belonging at school is another huge difference maker—students who feel connected to friends and teachers report fewer challenges. It’s a reminder that strong families, caring schools, and supportive communities matter big-time for Mesa County’s future.

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