In 2022, young people in Colorado shared that they were feeling down more often than before. It’s important to talk about and support the mental health of our youth. Feeling anxious or sad can be tough, especially for kids and teens. But it's important for them to know they're not alone and there are ways to get help. 

One way is through a program called I Matter. It's free and easy to use. I Matter was created in 2021 by the state of Colorado to provide Colorado’s youth with up to six FREE therapy sessions with a licensed therapist. 

Imagine having a safe, confidential space where you can talk about your feelings without worrying about being judged. That's what the I Matter program offers! Whether it's dealing with school stress, relationships, or feeling down, I Matter’s therapists are there to listen and help every step of the way. 

Shelley, a parent in Lakewood, CO, shared how I Matter helped her son: 

"My son is in the early teenage years and he was struggling, and when he finally came to me and asked for help, I asked him if he would be interested in talking with a therapist where he could talk about what he was struggling with and it could be private. He didn't know what he needed, but he knew he needed help. After getting therapy with I Matter, he felt better and he picked up a few skills! He's so private and was asking for help in his own way, I had to act on that short window where he was interested so it was great that I Matter was available so he could get connected to someone while he was in that window of willingness. It was great to have it available to get him through that rough spot."

What sets I Matter apart is that it’s easy to access: 

• There’s no cost and you don’t need insurance, or to ever prove legal status.
• Services are provided in English and Spanish. 
• Signing up is simple: youth 12 and older can complete the ~10-minute online survey at IMatterColorado.org or YoImportoColorado.org. 

• For youth under the age of 12, parent or guardian consent is required, and parents or guardians can complete the survey for or with their child. 

  Youth and/or their parent or guardian can choose from a list of therapists, decide if they want in-person or online sessions, and review short profiles about each therapist to find the right one. For more details on the signup process, check out this visual guide. 

  All Colorado youth ages 18 or younger—or 21 and younger if receiving special education services—are eligible to receive free services. 

  Therapy isn't just about the sessions themselves. It gives young people the tools and support they need to handle life's challenges. Everyone should make their mental health a priority, and I Matter is here to help. 

  If you or a young person in your life is feeling anxious, sad, or simply needs someone to talk to, remember that help is just a click away. Visit IMatterColorado.org or YoImportoColorado.org to learn more about free therapy and to get started today.