Second Wind Fund connects Colorado kids at risk of suicide with accessible mental health care

Nearly one in five Colorado high school students reported they have seriously considered suicide, according to the latest survey data on the subject. 

That startling statistic is what makes the work Colorado nonprofit Second Wind Fund does all the more important, said Anna Bishop, development director for the organization that connects Colorado youth under 20 who are at risk of suicide to accessible mental health care.

To access the organization’s services, parents or youth-serving professionals like school counselors fill out an online form on the Second Wind Fund website describing what the young person in their life is struggling with and what barriers to care they face.

“We really are looking for reasons to serve youth,” said Bishop, noting that a child doesn’t have to explicitly state they are suicidal to receive services. Past mental health problems, coming from a violent home or suddenly withdrawing from activities they’ve previously enjoyed can all be indicators that a young person needs mental health care.

Once Second Wind Fund receives a referral, staffers look it over within 48 hours and if they move forward with the referral, the organization provides a list of therapists best suited for the child’s needs, Bishop said.

Second Wind Funds works with a network of around 900 therapists across the state who range in expertise.

Once a child is connected with a therapist, the provider is expected to see the child within seven business days, Bishop said.

If a child’s family has financial constraints, Second Wind Fund covers the cost of 12 to 20 therapy sessions.

Last fiscal year, the organization managed 1,114 referrals and delivered more than 4,600 therapy sessions.