With mental health support more accessible than ever, Colorado’s 988 helpline turns to innovation—from soothing YouTube streams to in-stadium relaxation zones—to connect with communities statewide.

From Hotline to Holistic Care

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — In just one year, 988, Colorado’s statewide mental health and crisis hotline, has transformed how Coloradans seek emotional support—and how they find calm in chaos.

Since July 2024, awareness of the free 24/7 service has jumped 80%, according to program officials, thanks to a creative mix of digital outreach, on-the-ground engagement, and sensory-focused wellness experiences.

“This isn’t just about answering calls anymore,” said Gordon Coombes, Director of Colorado’s 988 initiative. “We’re building a culture of mental health care that people can see, hear, and feel—even in the middle of a baseball game.”

What Is 988?

988 is the national three-digit crisis and suicide prevention hotline, launched in 2022, designed to simplify access to mental health support. In Colorado, it offers calls, texts, and live chats with licensed professionals, available in over 200 languages, making it a lifeline for people navigating mental health issues, emotional distress, or substance use struggles.

Going Beyond the Phone

In the past year, the Colorado 988 team has introduced a suite of innovative tools aimed at making mental wellness more accessible—and more present—in everyday spaces.

🎧 988 Radio: Mental Health Meets Music

One of the more surprising tools? 988 Radio, a continuous stream of ambient, calming music available on YouTube. The concept: create a virtual “headspace” that anyone can access, anytime.

“People can put on their headsets, tune into YouTube, and listen wherever they are,” said Chloe Rekow, 988’s marketing and outreach specialist. “In the car, at school, with kids, even in a crowded room—it’s a mobile safe zone.”

🪑 Wellness Lounges at Rockies Games

Taking things further into the community, 988 has also debuted relaxation lounges at Colorado Rockies games. These pop-up zones feature lounge chairs, noise-cancelling headsets, and the same 988 music stream—a mental reset in the middle of stadium noise and adrenaline.

“You can just sit under our tent and chill for a little bit,” said Coombes. “It’s about normalizing care—even in public, even in unexpected places.”

Why It Matters

Colorado, like many states, continues to grapple with rising mental health needs—particularly among youth and rural populations. The 988 hotline has emerged as a critical tool in addressing that need, offering immediate, free support to anyone in distress.

But breaking the stigma around seeking help remains a challenge.

“988 is truly for everyone and anyone, wherever they may be—including Grand Junction,” Rekow emphasized. “We want people to think of mental health the way they think of physical health: something worth tuning into regularly.”

Key Features of Colorado’s 988 Hotline

As awareness continues to rise, 988 officials say they’ll keep adapting their outreach—meeting Coloradans wherever they are, whether on the phone, in a stadium, or simply looking for a moment of peace.