Kindbridge Research Institute launches statewide Stigma Stand Down program in Colorado
Initiative targets stigma around mental health and gambling disorders in military communities.
Key Points
- Program inspired by military safety stand-downs to address mental health stigma
- Includes free confidential telehealth therapy, education, and self-assessment tools
- Builds on KRI’s prior veteran-focused research initiatives and partnerships
The Kindbridge Research Institute (KRI) has launched Stigma Stand Down (SSD), a statewide initiative in Colorado designed to address stigma and expand access to mental health and gambling support for military personnel, veterans, and their families.
The program takes inspiration from the military’s safety stand-down model, where operations pause to focus on critical safety issues.
In this case, SSD aims to confront stigma, which KRI notes often prevents individuals from seeking help for conditions such as PTSD, depression, substance use, and gambling disorder.
Studies suggest gambling disorder is up to 3.5 times more prevalent in military populations than civilians.
Mark Lucia, Director of Programming at KRI, said: “Stigma is a silent enemy that leaves our service members and veterans isolated, harming their families, units, and mission readiness. Stigma Stand Down is our frontline response: dismantling shame and delivering free, confidential, evidence-based care designed for military realities.”
Good to know: KRI previously partnered with MGM Resorts and BetMGM, securing $100,000 in funding to support a voluntary medication trial for veterans with gambling addiction in Las Vegas
That program formed part of the institute’s wider 50×4 Vets initiative, aimed at increasing research into veteran gambling disorders.
Key features of the new program include educational webinars and courses on mental health and gambling, free telehealth therapy sessions through Kindbridge Behavioral Health, targeted statewide outreach campaigns, and a Gambling Self-Check screener that provides anonymous, immediate feedback.
The initiative is supported by grants from the Colorado Division of Gaming and FanDuel, with additional contributions from research partners including the University of Nevada Las Vegas and the University of New Mexico.
William Hinman, a peer support specialist with the Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling who appears in one of the videos, said: “People who call the helpline may see gambling as a financial solution or an escape from difficulties in their life. We can relate because we’ve been there, so we start by sharing some of our own experiences so they know they aren’t alone or being judged.”
The launch coincides with heightened attention on problem gambling prevention and treatment, as legalized sports betting continues to expand nationwide.
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