The Background

Historically, Next Chapter was funded through Colorado SB21-129. This bill required the establishment of a Veteran suicide prevention pilot program. The program aimed to reduce Veteran suicide rates by providing confidential, stigma-free behavioral health care with no out-of-pocket cost for Veterans and their families.

The Need

A 2021 report by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office revealed a troubling trend. While suicides went down countywide, numbers went up among the among the military-affiliated populations. Of the county’s 176 deaths by suicide in 2021, 53 were identified as active duty and military Veterans. That was a 10 percent increase from 2020. From a state perspective, Colorado continued to outpace the national average for Veteran and military suicides as well.

How We Can Help

The stigma of seeking help has taken too many of our Veteran brothers and sisters. We are at a crossroads, a crucial moment in the Pikes Peak region where we can make a difference. If you are a Veteran and want to continue your service to others, contact us and see how your fellow Veterans can benefit from your talents and time. We, at UCHealth and Next Chapter, look forward to partnering with individuals and organizations in the Pikes Peak Region as we support our Veterans and their families. We’re in this together to save lives!

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