Substance Abuse, Addiction, and Mental Health in Colorado: A Growing Crisis
Colorado is known for its stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes, breathtaking national parks, and an active outdoor lifestyle filled with skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. Yet behind all that beauty, many individuals and communities across the state are struggling with mental health challenges, addiction, and substance abuse.
Over the past six years working in Colorado, Mae Mental Wellness founder Erin Lutchkus has seen firsthand how these issues have become more visible and severe, and it has further defined her mission: the importance of accessible mental health care no matter where patients are - physically or mentally.
At Mae Mental Wellness, we’re here to make getting help a little easier. Through virtual telepsychiatry, we provide compassionate care that includes both medication management and psychotherapy. Whether you’re located in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Denver, or anywhere else in Colorado, our goal is to ensure mental health support is accessible, personalized, and effective for you.
Why Colorado Needs Accessible Virtual Psychiatry Services
Virtual psychiatry means secure video or phone sessions with our board-certified licensed providers Erin Lutchkus and Carol Milliken. There are limited providers in counties like Adams, El Paso, and Douglas, but virtual care helps Coloradans avoid long commutes and scheduling challenges.
Key benefits include:
Flexible scheduling around work or family needs
No travel time or cost, ideal for rural residents
Greater privacy and comfort when meeting from home
In addition to psychotherapy, many people also benefit from medication as part of their treatment plan. Mae Mental Wellness makes this accessible through our virtual psychiatry services.
Medication Management in Colorado
Medication may be an important part of treatment for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Mae Mental Wellness providers take time to assess symptoms, set goals, and adjust prescriptions safely, which are often covered by insurance or Medicaid. You can see the full list of service providers we accept at Mae Mental Wellness by navigating to our Insurance page.
Methamphetamine Abuse, Homelessness, and Mental Health in CO
Substance abuse, specifically methamphetamine abuse, is one of the most critical concerns in central and southern Colorado. Since the pandemic in 2020, meth abuse has dramatically increased in Colorado, likely in part stemming from the pandemic’s negative impact on mental health. About 300 Coloradans die each year from meth overdoses, only surpassed by fentanyl deaths. Fentanyl abuse has also increased in recent years following the pandemic.
Additionally, there are severe issues with homelessness throughout Colorado. Lack of affordable housing, job loss, low wages, substance abuse, domestic violence, and a high cost of living have greatly contributed to the homelessness epidemic, especially in the Denver Metro area. Additionally, homelessness can cause or worsen mental illness due to barriers to care and limited access to resources.
These troubling facts highlight the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that prioritize both recovery and dignity in the Mile High City and throughout Colorado.
Why Choose Mae Mental Wellness in Colorado
Choosing the right mental health provider matters. At Mae Mental Wellness, our mission is to make mental health care accessible for Centennial State residents, no matter where you are physically or mentally.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Licensed, compassionate psychiatric providers with a variety of mental health specializations
100% virtual care through secure telehealth platforms
Personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your needs and overall wellness
A patient-centered approach that respects and values your health
Whether you’re experiencing your first symptoms of anxiety or you’ve been managing depression for years, we can help you take the first step toward healing.
Where to Find Mental Health and Addiction Resources in Colorado
Mental health is just as important as physical health, but the barriers to getting quality mental health treatment can often seem daunting. If you’re searching for convenient telepsychiatry that offers comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with evidence-based medication management, Mae Mental Wellness is here to guide you with compassion and expertise.
To book an appointment at Mae Mental Wellness, you can fill out this form or call (561) 231-0233. Learn more about services we offer and which insurance we accept.
