Did you know that only about 50 percent of people with any mental illness received treatment in 2024? Finding mental health support is one of the most important, positive decisions you can make, but we know it can also be scary, confusing and time-consuming. Whether for yourself or someone you care about, you’ll have many questions: when to seek help, what kind of help is right, and how to access the resources in your community.
You don’t have to walk this path alone. Local resources can meet you where you are.
Why seeking support matters
Mental health conditions are common. In the U.S., about 23 percent of adults experience mental illness. In Colorado, more than 1 in 4 people have reported eight or more days of poor mental health in the prior month.
Seeking support matters because treatment works — and recovery is possible. From therapy to medication, peer support and education, we can find stability, purpose and hope. Research shows that getting help can lead to:
- improved daily functioning, with better focus, relationships and overall quality of life.
- reduced risk of crisis, since untreated symptoms can worsen over time and increase the risk of hospitalization or self-harm.
- stronger physical health — mental and physical health are deeply connected, and caring for one supports the other.
- community connection, with support groups and counseling helping people feel less alone and more understood.
Finding support: A step-by-step approach
- Reflect on your needs and goals. Ask yourself:
- What am I feeling or experiencing? (e.g., anxiety, depression, mood swings, intrusive thoughts)
- Is it impacting my daily life? (work, relationships, sleep)
- Am I looking for immediate relief, long-term support, peer connection, professional therapy or a mix?
- Know what options exist locally. On our website, you’ll find a curated list of resources including:
- Hotlines and online resources like the 988 Lifeline (call or text) for 24/7 free emotional support.
- mental health care providers like counseling clinics, inpatient/residential facilities and walk-in crisis centers.
- local support services aimed at specific communities (e.g., youth, LGBTQIA2+, veterans, people of color).
- downloadable guides like our Self-Care Toolbox, Navigating a Mental Health Crisis, and Seeking Professional Help.
- Match your needs to the type of support.
- If you’re experiencing an emergency or having thoughts of self-harm, use immediate help lines (e.g., 988) and consider a walk-in crisis center or emergency room.
- If you’re experiencing non-emergent but ongoing struggles (persistent mood symptoms, anxiety, trauma), consider licensed therapists, psychiatrists or outpatient clinics.
- If you feel alone and unsure where to turn, reach for peer support to find community.
- Consider practical access.
- Insurance/payment: Some providers accept insurance, and others offer sliding scale or free services.
- Availability: Wait times can be a barrier, so reaching out to multiple providers can be well worth your effort.
- Location/format: Do you prefer in-person or virtual support? Are you comfortable traveling or need something nearby?
- The right fit: A therapeutic relationship matters. It’s OK to switch providers if the first one doesn’t feel like a good match.
- Make the call or send the email.
- Take one small step: reach out to a resource. Ask what they offer, how they charge, how soon you can start. Build a list of two or three options so you’re not stuck if one doesn’t work out.
A powerful first step
No matter the struggle, taking the step to reach out is so vital. You deserve support that’s timely, tailored and respectful of your identity and experience.
At NAMI Colorado Springs, our hope is that you can find local resources as your springboard toward connection, healing and community. And remember, most importantly: you don’t have to do this alone. If you feel unsure of where to turn, reach out to us.