SALEM, Ore. — Today, 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.”
Library Offers “Declaration 1776” Exhibit for Community Display in Josephine County
Josephine Community Library invites organizations, schools, and public agencies in Josephine County to host Declaration 1776, a new Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History traveling exhibit exploring the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence.
Through primary sources and images, Declaration 1776 illustrates how the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice have inspired generations in the pursuit of liberty. The exhibit was donated by Grants Pass native, James Basker, president and CEO of the Gilder Lehrman Institute.
Designed for flexible display in public spaces, classrooms, and civic settings, Declaration 1776 complements the library’s ongoing Declaration 250 program series marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. Organizations in Josephine County that are interested in hosting the exhibit can find more information and submit a request through the Declaration 250 Subject Guide at josephinelibrary.org.