Mesa County Public Health, in partnership with the Mesa County Coroner’s Office and the Mesa County Suicide Prevention Coalition, released its annual Suicide Report.

The findings shed light on the ongoing challenges surrounding suicide in our community, but also highlight how prevention efforts are making a difference and where opportunities exist to build a stronger, healthier future.

For employers, the report is a reminder that prevention is not just a health issue, it’s a workforce and economic issue. Supporting employees with resources, flexibility and awareness can reduce stressors that may lead to crisis.

Mesa County businesses are already playing an important role by encouraging conversations about mental health and connecting staff to resources.

Local programs such as Grand Valley Connects, which links residents with essential services, and Find the Right Fit, which helps connect people with the right mental health care, are expanding access to support. There is also support for survivors after suicide loss through Heartbeat GJ, as well resources for veterans, such as the VA Keep It Secure program.

“The progress we’ve made shows that prevention is possible, and that every sector, from health care to business, has a part to play,” said Jennifer Daniels, Behavioral Health Division director at Mesa County Public Health. “We spend a lot of our time at our place of work. Workplace wellness programs and efforts can provide employees timely support and education to build resilience, which is a protective factor for suicide.”

On average, 50 Mesa County residents die by suicide each year. While this number remains higher than state and national averages, the annual report offers valuable insights that are helping community leaders, businesses and families better understand risk factors and strengthen prevention.

“This report gives us the knowledge we need to take action,” Daniels said. “It shows us not only where the challenges remain, but also how our community is coming together to save lives and support each other.”

The data reflects long-standing trends: Suicide most often impacts working-age adults, and men remain at higher risk than women. More than half of recent deaths involved a firearm, underscoring the importance of lethal means safety and timely intervention.

The full report is available on the Mesa County Public Health website. Community members are encouraged to explore the findings, learn about available resources and consider how they can contribute to a culture of prevention and support.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or text 988 for the Colorado Mental Health Line, or text CO to 741741 to connect with the Crisis Text Line and be connected with a trained counselor.

Sarah Gray is a communication specialist with Mesa County Public Health. For additional information, call (970) 248-6900 or visit mesacounty.us/public-health.