Press Release: Oregon Faces Urgent Behavioral Health Crisis
Oregon’s struggle with mental health and suicide rates is highlighted in a recent audit from the Secretary of State’s Office, revealing that the state’s behavioral health needs far exceed available services. Since 2000, Oregon has consistently reported higher suicide rates than the national average, currently ranking 46th for untreated substance use disorders.
The audit underscores that Oregon’s behavioral crisis response systems only partially align with national best practices. Recommendations from the report suggest that improving these systems could yield significant health and economic benefits, estimating a return of $24 for every $1 spent on youth mental health and suicide prevention.
Secretary of State Tobias Read emphasized the urgency of addressing this crisis: "Too many people are suffering. By implementing these recommendations, Oregon can provide better services that support health, housing, and life."
The Oregon Health Authority’s lack of adequate data hampers efforts to understand the demand for behavioral health services. Since 2020, when the 988 hotline was established as a national resource, the state has adopted a model with three pillars: the crisis hotline, mobile crisis teams, and stabilization centers. Yet, only the hotline currently receives sustainable funding, leaving stabilization centers without necessary financial support.
Additionally, Oregon’s youth face alarming mental health challenges, with 2022 youth suicide rates at 14.2 per 100,000, surpassing the national rate. Almost 15% of youth surveyed reported having serious thoughts of suicide.
The audit presents 12 recommendations to enhance data collection, address funding, and strategize future planning, all of which the Oregon Health Authority has accepted. Immediate action is crucial to alleviate this escalating crisis.
For those in need, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting "988" or through online chat at 988lifeline.org.
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