Data from the Healthy Kids Colorado Survey highlights the critical role of data in addressing youth mental health and suicide prevention. Suicide remains a leading cause of death among high school students, with disproportionately high rates among LGBTQ+ youth and racially diverse populations. Understanding these disparities is essential for designing culturally responsive interventions that address the unique social, cultural, and economic stressors faced by minority youth.

Our data, obtained from the Colorado School of Public Health’s research program, includes raw survey responses from 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023. Through a detailed analysis of age, mental health indicators, school/district identifiers, and demographics, we identified key trends, assessed the impact of past interventions, and highlighted areas requiring further support.

Notably, the 2023 survey revealed a decline in persistent sadness, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation among Colorado youth compared to 2021. This positive shift follows a surge in mental health challenges during the pandemic, which prompted data-driven policy responses. In 2021, Colorado lawmakers launched a statewide initiative providing free counseling for children and adolescents, while school districts expanded access to mental health services by hiring more social workers, counselors, and psychologists.

These findings suggest that strategic investments in mental health and suicide prevention—guided by data—are making a measurable impact. Colorado’s approach demonstrates the power of collaborative data use in advancing health equity and improving youth well-being.