Oregon leads West Coast in suicide prevention hotline use

Oregon led the West Coast in calls to the 988 national suicide prevention hotline, recording a rate of 31. 3 contacts per 1,000 people in 2024. This figure places Oregon ninth in the nation, surpassing California and Washington. The national average stood at 23. 7 contacts per 1,000, indicating a significant engagement with mental health support services across the country.

The hotline was launched nearly three years ago to address the growing mental health crisis in America. Recent budget proposals from the Trump administration aim to cut 988 services tailored for LGBTQ+ youth, raising concerns about the impact on this vulnerable population. Advocates argue that maintaining these services is critical for ensuring accessible mental health support. The analysis highlights Oregon's proactive approach to mental health, serving as a model for other states. Overall, the reliance on the hotline emphasizes the urgent need for continued support and resources in mental health care.