Mental Health Archives - Let's Talk Guns Colorado

Mental Health Awareness

gunswpadmin — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 21:35:51 +0000

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize how secure firearm storage can save lives.

Studies show that nearly half of suicide attempts happen within 10 minutes of a person deciding to act.

Storing your firearm in a locked container creates a vital time buffer. This delay can create enough time for a crisis to pass or for someone to seek help.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7. You can confidentially call or text the 988 lifeline, or visit 988colorado.com for support.

The post Mental Health Awareness appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

How to Check-In with a Loved One

gunswpadmin — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 21:01:46 +0000

Checking in with a friend, family member, or neighbor might not come naturally or feel easy, but it can make a meaningful difference.

If you notice someone struggling, take a second to check in. A quick text, a phone call, or just a simple “Hey, how are you doing?” the next time you see them can make a huge difference.

Use the conversation starters in this post to help guide what to say and make that first step a little easier.

The post How to Check-In with a Loved One appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

988 Colorado

gunswpadmin — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 19:37:07 +0000

For some people, asking for help can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Knowing what happens next can make that step easier.

988 is Colorado’s mental health crisis line. You can call, text, or chat 24/7 with a trained specialist who will listen, ask a few clarifying questions, and then help you brainstorm practical next steps or available resources.

Getting support early can help keep a tough moment from turning into a crisis. Learn more about how 988 works in Colorado at https://www.988colorado.com/en/what-is-988.

The post 988 Colorado appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Trusted Voices Can Make a Difference

gunswpadmin — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 19:24:02 +0000

As a member of Colorado’s firearm community, you are a trusted voice. Use that trust to promote safety and care.

• Start the conversation: If you are concerned about a fellow gun owner, be direct but compassionate.
• Normalize help: Mental health care is a sign of strength, not weakness. Encourage others to seek support just as they would for a physical injury. If you or someone you know is in crisis, help is available 24/7.

Call or text 988. For more ways to talk about firearms, head to LetsTalkGunsColorado.com/Collective-Responsibility/.

The post Trusted Voices Can Make a Difference appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

I Matter.

gunswpadmin — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 17:36:32 +0000

If a young person in your life is going through a tough time, they don’t have to do it alone. The I Matter program provides up to six free, confidential therapy sessions for all Colorado youth. Sign up at imattercolorado.org. If they need urgent help, call or text 988.

The post I Matter. appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Protect Those Closest to You

gunswpadmin — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 19:02:30 +0000

Responsible gun ownership means protecting those closest to us. If you own a gun and live with someone who may be struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, have a plan when it comes to your firearms.
• Lock firearms, keep them unloaded, and store ammo separately. Ensure that keys or safe codes are kept private if necessary to prevent a tragedy.
• For safe firearm storage during times of crisis, consider trusted friends, family, or secure locations on the out-of-home storage map linked here: https://coloradofirearmsafetycoalition.org/gun-storage-map/.
• Talking with your loved one about gun safety or their struggles can remind them they’re not alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988, or live chat at 988Colorado.org. Find more ways to talk about guns at https://letstalkgunscolorado.com/living-with-guns/

The post Protect Those Closest to You appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Check In

gunswpadmin — Mon, 05 Oct 2026 17:37:25 +0000

Even the strongest people need a hand sometimes. True strength comes from having each other’s backs.

Here’s what you can do:
• Ask: What’s going on? You seem off lately.
• Give full attention: Ditch scrolling through your phone, listen closely to what they are saying.
• Follow up: Check in now and then, to see how they’re doing.
• Connect them: If needed, point them toward the crisis line, 988, to get extra help.

Remember to check in on your friends and learn more on our website.

The post Check In appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Recognizing the Signs Isn’t Always Obvious (Demo)

gunswpadmin — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 21:04:50 +0000

Suicidal ideation warning signs in teens can be difficult to recognize and aren’t always obvious.

Learning about changes in behavior, mood, or withdrawal can help parents and caregivers respond early. Conversations about mental health and access to support are an important part of prevention.

Explore the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention guide for parents https://afsp.org/teens-and-suicide-what-parents-should-know/.

The post Recognizing the Signs Isn’t Always Obvious (Demo) appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Know the Signs (Demo)

gunswpadmin — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 20:55:23 +0000

When someone shows signs of harming themselves or others, an Extreme Risk Protection Order may help prevent tragedy.

If someone is showing extreme emotional distress, acting recklessly with a firearm, or escalating threats, it may be time to consider additional safety measures.

An Extreme Risk Protection Order can temporarily pause firearm access during a crisis to help prevent tragedy and create time for support and recovery.

Learn how Extreme Risk Protection Orders can help save lives at https://letstalkgunscolorado.com/extreme-risk-protection…/

The post Know the Signs (Demo) appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.

Help is a Phone Call Away (Demo)

gunswpadmin — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:17:41 +0000

For some people, asking for help can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Knowing what happens next can make that step easier.

Getting support early can help keep a tough moment from turning into a crisis. Learn more about how 988 works in Colorado at https://www.988colorado.com/en/what-is-988

The post Help is a Phone Call Away (Demo) appeared first on Let's Talk Guns Colorado.