Building Hope: Suicide Prevention in Rural Communities

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and this year Gunnison Valley Health is shining a light on community connection and the local resources that save lives. 

Living in rural areas like Gunnison means we face unique challenges like distance, limited resources and social stigma. These factors can contribute to higher suicide rates, and Colorado continues to rank among the states with elevated numbers overall. From 2016 to 2020, the statewide average was about 21.1 deaths per 100,000 people according to the Colorado Department of Public Health. While these statistics are sobering, prevention is possible, and it is happening here. 

Behind the scenes are families, friends and neighbors committed to helping one another. A 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment identified mental health as our region’s top priority. In response, GVH expanded services to include outpatient therapy, school-based programs, peer support and around-the-clock crisis response. Last year, the Mobile Crisis team responded to more than 160 calls, and the majority of individuals were able to remain safely in their homes with follow-up care. These interventions prove that timely, compassionate support makes a difference. 

Gunnison Valley Health Behavioral Health provides counseling, therapy, medication management and custom care plans, while Mobile Crisis Services connect people to local professionals 24/7, 365 days a year in partnership with the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. 

“If people want help, we will be there. There is no criteria to meet to talk to us, or have us respond. We’ll be there for you. No matter what,” said Bryan Dillon, LPC, supervisor of the Mobile Crisis team. 

This month, Gunnison Valley Health encourages everyone to act, check in on a neighbor, save 988 in your phone and learn about local resources. Most importantly, remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

Hope is growing in Gunnison County. By working together, supporting one another and using the resources available, we can create a future where every person feels valued and supported. Suicide prevention is possible, and it starts with all of us. 

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988. To learn more about Gunnison Valley Health’s outpatient behavioral health services, call 970-648-7128. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier community in the Gunnison Valley.