Suicide Prevention

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among college‑aged students, but it is also preventable. Support, care and connection make a difference—and help is always available on campus and beyond.

If you or someone you care about is struggling, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

How to Help a Friend

Suicide prevention is about awareness, compassion and knowing when and how to connect to help. Everyone can play a role in supporting themselves and others.

If you’re worried about someone, trust your instincts. You don’t need the “perfect” words—showing care matters. Here are some tips for helping a friend:

Check in

Try something simple like, “I’ve noticed you seem different lately. How are you doing?” or “We haven’t talked much recently. Want to catch up?”

Listen without judgment

Give them space to share. You don’t need to fix anything—listening with empathy is powerful.

Ask directly if concerned about safety

Asking “Have you had thoughts about suicide?” does not increase risk. Research shows it can communicate care and open the door to support.

Encourage professional help

Offer to help them connect with campus resources if they’re open to it.

Follow up

Check back in, ask what they need and remind them they’re not alone. Supporting someone does not mean handling everything yourself—getting professionals involved is key.

Understanding Suicide and Risk

There is no single cause of suicide. Risk can be influenced by many factors, including individual, social and environmental factors.

Important Things to Know
  • Suicide affects people across all identities and backgrounds.
  • Warning signs are common and often visible.
  • Talking about suicidal thoughts does not put the idea in someone’s head—it can reduce isolation and increase safety.
Possible Warning Signs

A person experiencing suicidal thoughts may:

  • Withdraw from friends or activities
  • Express feelings of hopelessness or being a burden
  • Talk about wanting to die or not wanting to be here
  • Show major changes in mood, sleep, behavior or academic performance

If you notice these signs, reaching out can make a difference.

Build Skills

Health Promotion offers workshops and presentations that help community members develop skills and learn how they can support others.

  • Ask the Question: Suicide Prevention Training: A 1‑hour training on warning signs, helping skills and campus resources for students, faculty and staff.
  • Mental Health First Aid:A full‑day training on recognizing concerns, starting conversations and connecting people to care for students, faculty and staff.
  • Supporting Student Resiliency: Workshops focused on coping skills and mental well‑being for faculty and staff.

Support for Yourself if You’re Struggling with Mental Health

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, distressed or having thoughts about harming yourself, help is available and you deserve care.


Free counseling, crisis care, and after‑hours support for students. Call 303‑492‑2277 to connect with a licensed mental health professional anytime (24/7).


Confidential advocacy and emotional support for students affected by trauma or distressing experiences—call 303‑492‑8855.


Call or text 988 for 24/7 support.


Call 1‑866‑488‑7386 or text START to 678‑678.

Counseling works. Talking with a mental health professional can reduce suicidal thoughts and help students feel more supported and succeed academically. Additionally, writing down who you’d contact in a crisis can reduce the likelihood of acting on suicidal thoughts. Identify supportive people and keep their contact info accessible.

If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent help, you can also contact 988 (call or text) for the .

Support for Others

If you’re worried about someone’s well‑being or safety and need additional support, you don’t have to manage it alone.

CAPS consultation and support
You can call 303‑492‑2277 to talk through concerns about a friend and get guidance on next steps.

Red Folder
A campus‑wide guide that helps you recognize signs of distress and know how and when to reach out for help.

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS)
Helps students navigate challenging situations by coordinating support and connecting them with campus and community resources. (Not an emergency service; anyone can submit a referral.)

Welfare checks
If you’re concerned about someone’s immediate health or safety and can’t reach them:

  • On campus: 鶹ѰPolice Department (CUPD) – 303‑492‑6666. When available, a counselor may assist during welfare checks—you can ask about this when you call.
  • Off campus: Boulder Police – 303‑441‑3333.

Be prepared to give the exact address (residence hall and room number if on campus) as well as the reason for your concerns.

Don’t Ignore It
Tools and guidance for responding to concerning behaviors and deciding when to report concerns.


Call or text 988 for 24/7 support.


Call 1‑866‑488‑7386 or text START to 678‑678.