Mental health is a critical issue that affects individuals, families, and communities, but for many years, Oregon has struggled to provide sufficient care for those in need. In 2022, the state ranked 49th in the nation for mental health, with alarmingly high rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. However, as of 2024, Oregon has made significant strides, moving up to 46th place. This improvement is a result of concerted efforts by local communities, healthcare providers, and state policymakers to address mental health concerns head-on.
At Crestview Recovery, we’re proud to be a part of this movement toward better mental health care. As one of the few facilities in Portland fully licensed to provide primary mental health treatment, we’ve seen firsthand the difference that access to comprehensive, compassionate care can make. In this article, we’ll explore Oregon’s progress in mental health, how the state improved its ranking, and how our mental health program at Crestview Recovery is helping individuals heal and thrive.
Where Does Oregon Rank for Mental Health 2024
In 2022, Oregon’s mental health ranking was among the worst in the country, sitting at 49th place, according to Mental Health America, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health treatment and research. This was a wake-up call for many, highlighting the urgent need for better mental health resources, treatment options, and community support.
Fortunately, as of 2024, Oregon has improved its mental health ranking to 46th place—though still far from where it should be. This improvement, while modest, is an important milestone in the state’s efforts to address mental health issues. It signals that Oregon is making significant progress in tackling mental health challenges, including increasing access to care, expanding awareness, and reducing stigma.
The improvement in Oregon’s ranking can be attributed to a variety of factors, including policy reforms, greater funding for mental health programs, and a broader recognition of mental health as a critical component of overall well-being. Still, more work remains to be done, and we at Crestview Recovery are committed to continuing to provide high-quality, comprehensive care for those struggling with mental health disorders.
Mental Health Statistics in Oregon
Oregon’s mental health statistics paint a concerning picture of the challenges residents face. According to data from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences a mental health disorder in any given year, and Oregon is no exception. However, the state has some of the highest rates of anxiety, depression, and substance abuse co-occurring with mental health issues.
In particular, anxiety disorders and depression are widespread, affecting individuals across all age groups, races, and socio-economic backgrounds. Additionally, trauma and PTSD are significant concerns, with many residents experiencing these issues due to Oregon’s high rates of natural disasters, homelessness, and social adversity.
Some of the most recent statistics include:
- Anxiety and Depression: According to research by KKF, 35% of adults in Oregon reported having an anxiety or depression disorder in 2023, compared to 32% in the U.S. overall.
- Trauma and PTSD: A growing number of Oregon residents—particularly those in rural areas and those who have experienced childhood adversity—struggle with PTSD or trauma-related disorders.
- Suicide: Oregon’s suicide rate is one of the highest in the nation, with 19.3 persons per 100,000 committing suicide each year according to the CDC.
These statistics underscore the need for immediate and comprehensive mental health services, as well as the importance of reducing stigma around seeking help.
How Did Oregon Improve Mental Health?
In response to these troubling statistics, Oregon has taken significant steps to improve its mental health care system. Over the past few years, state officials, healthcare providers, and community leaders have worked together to address mental health at both the policy and grassroots levels.
Some of the key measures Oregon has implemented to improve mental health care include:
In 2021 and 2022, the state allocated significant funding to expand mental health services, focusing on increasing access to care for underserved communities. The funding would improve community-based mental health programs, increase the availability of crisis intervention services, and fund additional mental health professionals, particularly in rural areas where services are often limited.
This year, Oregon invested $1.35 billion in its mental health system due the the legislation passed in 2021 to increase funding, according to the Oregon government.. This funding was used to:
- Launch the 988 crisis line
- Add mobile crisis teams
- Expand the mental health workforce
- Improve community mental health programs
- Provide direct funding to counties with the highest need
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of telehealth services, and Oregon has worked to expand access to virtual mental health care. By making therapy and psychiatric consultations more accessible online, Oregon has removed some of the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking treatment, such as transportation issues or the stigma associated with in-person care.
Oregon has also made efforts to address the social determinants of mental health—factors like homelessness, poverty, and access to education. The state has prioritized affordable housing initiatives, job training programs, and improved access to healthcare, all of which contribute to better mental health outcomes.
Finally, Oregon has focused on reducing the stigma around mental health issues through public awareness campaigns. These efforts encourage individuals to seek help when needed and promote a more open, compassionate conversation about mental health.
Though Oregon’s mental health ranking has improved,it’s important to continue these efforts toward bettering mental health care. But the steps the state has taken in recent years lay a strong foundation for continued progress.
Crestview Recovery’s Mental Health Treatment in Portland
At Crestview Recovery, we’re proud to be part of the effort to improve mental health care in Oregon. As one of the few fully licensed facilities in Portland to provide primary mental health treatment, we offer a comprehensive program for individuals dealing with a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, and personality disorders.
Our residential mental health program provides a safe, supportive environment for individuals who need intensive care. By offering a structured, therapeutic setting, we help our clients address the root causes of their mental health issues while equipping them with the tools and coping strategies they need to manage their condition long-term.
We combine evidence-based therapies with holistic approaches to ensure a well-rounded treatment experience. Our programs include:
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions with licensed therapists to explore the underlying causes of mental health issues and develop personalized treatment plans.
- Group Therapy: Group counseling sessions where clients can share experiences, gain insights, and receive support from others who understand their struggles.
- Trauma-Focused Therapy: Specialized therapy for individuals dealing with PTSD and trauma, using techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
- Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Tools and techniques to help individuals manage stress and anxiety, improving emotional regulation and overall well-being.
At Crestview Recovery, we specialize in treating a variety of mental health disorders, including:
- Anxiety Disorders: Whether it’s generalized anxiety, panic attacks, or social anxiety, we provide a compassionate and effective approach to treatment.
- Depression: Our team works with clients to address both the emotional and physiological aspects of depression, promoting healing and long-term recovery.
- PTSD and Trauma: We offer specialized trauma-informed care, helping individuals process past experiences in a safe, supportive environment.
- Personality Disorders: For individuals dealing with personality disorders, we provide tailored therapy to help manage symptoms and build healthier relationships.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a mental health condition, getting help is the first step toward recovery. At Crestview Recovery, we make the process easy and accessible. To get started, simply reach out to our admissions team, and we’ll guide you through the process, from intake to treatment planning.
We understand that reaching out for help can be difficult, but we’re here to provide the support and care you need to start your journey to recovery.
What To Do If You’re Experiencing a Mental Health Crisis
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, it’s important to seek help immediately. A crisis can include thoughts of self-harm, suicidal ideation, or overwhelming feelings of distress. Here are some steps to take:
- Call a Crisis Hotline: Oregon has several mental health crisis hotlines, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) and the Multnomah Behavioral Health help line (503-988-4888).
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If the situation is life-threatening, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
- Reach Out for Support: Whether through a loved one or a professional, emotional support can help stabilize the situation and guide you toward treatment.
At Crestview Recovery, we provide crisis intervention services, and we’re committed to ensuring that those who are experiencing a mental health crisis receive the care they need.
Get Mental Health Care in Portland, Oregon!
Oregon has made important strides in improving its mental health ranking, and we’re proud to be part of that effort. While the state still has a long way to go, the increased focus on mental health care and the steps taken to address this crisis are making a real difference. At Crestview Recovery, we remain committed to offering high-quality, compassionate care for individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. If you or a loved one is in need of support, we’re here to help you break the cycle and find effective treatment.
https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf
https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/
https://www.kff.org/statedata/mental-health-and-substance-use-state-fact-sheets/oregon/
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/suicide-mortality/suicide.htm
