Spring Break Changes
Crisis drop-in hours will be paused during Spring Break, from March 23 through 29. Regular hours and services will resume March 30. If you need urgent support during break, please refer to our crisis resources.
Crisis ResourcesMental Health Crisis Services
Crisis Services: Immediate Help When You Need It Most
We understand that life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re experiencing emotional distress, facing a mental health crisis, or are concerned about someone else’s safety, the CU Denver Counseling Center is here to support you. No concern is too small — you don’t have to face this alone.
If You Are in Immediate Danger
Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Auraria Campus Police: 303-556-5000
Same-Day Crisis Support
Available Mondays through Thursday | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Same-day crisis support is available to currently enrolled CU Denver students experiencing acute emotional or psychological distress that cannot wait for a scheduled appointment. These brief, solution-focused sessions help stabilize immediate concerns and connect you with ongoing support.
In-Person Drop-In Hours:
Monday through Thursday
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Please arrive no later than 3:30)
Tivoli Building, 4th Floor, Room #454
Examples of situations appropriate for same-day crisis support:
- Having thoughts of suicide or feeling unsafe with yourself
- Feeling like you may harm someone else
- Hearing or seeing things others do not
- Experiencing a recent physical or sexual assault, stalking, or relationship violence
- Death of a loved one
- Recent discharge from a psychiatric hospital and needing follow-up care
- Experienced a recent trauma
- Feeling completely unable to function due to overwhelming distress
Mental Health Triage Guide
This guide helps determine what level of support is right for you or someone you’re concerned about.
| Level | Description | Examples | Recommended Action |
| Mild | Low distress, still functioning | Feeling stressed, anxious, homesick, or dealing with academic/relationship concerns
| Schedule a regular counseling appointment through the Appointments Page |
| Moderate | Significant distress impacting well-being | Difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep or appetite, emotionally upset but still managing daily responsibilities—with frequent or intense disruptions
| Contact the Counseling Center or visit during drop-in hours if unsure; same-day crisis support may be helpful |
| Severe | Acute psychological or emotional crisis | Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, thoughts of harming others, hallucinations, recent trauma, or feeling unable to function | Drop in for same-day crisis support during designated hours for risk assessment, de-escalation, and coordination of additional care if needed |
Not Sure If It’s a Crisis? Contact Us Anyway.
If something feels too heavy to carry alone, our team is here to guide you. Same-day support may be helpful if you are:
- Experiencing intense anxiety or panic
- Emotionally overwhelmed or unable to stop crying
- Struggling to complete daily tasks like eating, sleeping, or attending class
- Deeply concerned about another student’s safety or well-being
- Coping with a recent traumatic event
Visit during drop-in hours, or contact us to schedule an appointment:
After-Hours Crisis Support (Available 24/7)
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis outside Counseling Center hours:
- Call the CU Denver After-Hours Crisis Line: 303-615-9911
- (Be sure to identify yourself as a CU Denver or Auraria Campus student.)
- You’ll be connected to a licensed mental health professional for immediate support.
- Use the TELUS Health Student Support App:
- Access free, confidential mental health support anytime. Download the app and connect with a counselor via chat or phone.
- Colorado Crisis 24/7 walk-in centers and phone/text line
- https://coloradocrisisservices.org/ for Denver Metro WIC locations
- 844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255
Community Members
In case of an emergency, CALL 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Otherwise, choose the option that best suits your needs:
- Colorado Crisis Line: 1-844-493-8255 (TALK)
- National Suicide Hotline: 988
- Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the US to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor. Free 24/7 support.
- Trevor Lifeline: 1-866-488-7386
- Auraria Campus Police Department (ACPD): A full-service police agency operating 24 hours a day year-round. The ACPD responds to police, fire, medical and environmental emergencies on the Auraria Campus. Call 303-556-5000.
Concerned About a Student?
If you are a parent, faculty member, staff, friend, or peer concerned about a student’s well-being, please reach out. Early intervention can be life-saving. You can:
- Contact the Counseling Center directly for guidance.
- Submit a CARE Report through the Office of Case Management to connect the student with appropriate resources and support.
Additional Resources
- National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7): Call or text 988
- Colorado Crisis Services (24/7): Call 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255
- Auraria Campus Victim Assistance: https://www.thepca.org/
- Office of Case Management (student concern referrals): https://www.ucdenver.edu/student/wellness/care-team
You Are Not Alone
Whether you are in crisis or just struggling to cope, support is available. The CU Denver Counseling Center provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you regain stability and find the support you need.