In rap, real stories and raw emotions are powerful. Rising star Mathias DaGreat isn’t just making hits—he’s tackling issues that matter, including mental health. Recently, he highlighted a shocking statistic: Colorado ranks 46th in the nation for mental health care. His message is making people wonder why Colorado’s mental health support is so lacking.
Colorado’s mental health ranking has dropped from 30th in 2023 to 46th in 2024, a steep decline. The state ranks 47th for adults experiencing serious suicidal thoughts, with 5.91% of Colorado's adult population affected. Ranking just above Oregon, Colorado also holds the #50 spot for mental illness prevalence, driven by high substance use and limited access to effective treatments.
Several factors contribute to Colorado’s mental health struggles:
Workforce Shortage: Mental health job openings in Colorado increased by 152% from 2019 to 2022, with a projected 30% rise by 2030. But with providers leaving due to burnout, it's hard for clinics, especially in rural areas, to keep up.
Limited Funding: Colorado ranks 47th in mental health spending per capita, lagging far behind states like the District of Columbia. Without sufficient funding, mental health programs lack the resources to meet demand.
Stigma: Nearly half of Coloradans cite stigma as a reason preventing them from getting needed mental health care.
Mathias knows mental health affects everyone, regardless of age or background. By speaking out, he’s creating a safe space where his fans can feel heard and seen, and drive action. His openness in his recent interview exposes a new community to the possibility of healing and start conversations about mental health.
For many, especially young people, fear of judgment stops them from seeking help. When Mathias speaks up, he’s not just sharing his story—he’s normalizing mental health conversations in communities where the topic is often avoided. By showing vulnerability, Mathias is changing what it means to be strong.
At Axis Integrated Mental Health, we’re committed to advancing the mental health conversation in Colorado. Inspired by Mathias’ message, we’re here to provide support, resources, and care to anyone who needs it.
Mathias DaGreat and Axis are just the beginning. By sharing, commenting, or opening up to someone about mental health, you can help build a Colorado where everyone can access the care they need. Let’s keep the conversation going—because if you’re struggling, in the words of Mathias himself, “It’s not who you is meant to be.”