Rep. Elmer: Oregon has nation’s highest prevalence of mental health challenges

New report shows Oregon has the highest prevalence of mental health challenges in the nation
By Oregon House Representative Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer,

SALEM, Ore. — House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer (R-McMinnville) highlighted a new report showing Oregon ranks 51st among U.S. states and the District of Columbia for adults and youth with mental illness and/or substance abuse disorder, including higher rates of adults and youth with serious thoughts of suicide than the national average. The 2024 findings show Oregon ranks:

• 51st for adults with mental illness
• 49th for adults with serious thoughts of suicide
• 48th for adults with substance abuse disorder
• 47th for youth ages 12-17 with substance abuse disorder
• 47th for youth ages 12-17 with at least one major depressive episode
• 43rd for adults with mental illness reporting an unmet need for treatment
• 36th for youth ages 12-17 with serious thoughts of suicide

Another report, released this week, shows despite billions in new investment, Oregon’s mental health system remains strained by high need and limited access, with substance abuse and mental health challenges often going untreated until crisis.

“Oregon’s behavioral health system needs greater accountability and oversight with an urgent focus on early intervention,” said House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer (R-McMinnville), who championed House Bill 3643 earlier this year, designating October 9 as Youth Suicide Awareness Day. “Simply throwing money at the problem isn’t working. Every life lost to suicide or substance abuse is a result of inaction. We can and must do better.”