Hillsboro, Oregon Therapists

An Overview of Mental Health in Hillsboro, Oregon

The 105,171 citizens of Hillsboro, Oregon, have much to be proud of when it comes to their city’s history and culture. Not only is Hillsboro the seat of Washington County and one of the largest cities in the state, but it is also a hotbed of technology that includes a few corporate giants like Intel and Xerox. The mild climate, with its warm summers and mild, rainy winters makes this city a hub of outdoor locales that include everything from large parks and recreational areas to lush wineries.

Despite its falling unemployment rates, beauty, and history, Hillsboro’s size has resulted in some problems with divorce and violent crime. These issues can lead to a variety of mental health issues that include addiction, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bulimia, self-harm, and drug or alcohol abuse. Many different factors affect the frequency and number of individuals who suffer from these issues including:

• Unemployment: Washington County’s unemployment is slightly below the national average of 6.6 percent. However, the majority of those unemployed belong to Native American or Hispanic families, increasing the risk for mental health issues among these households.
• Divorce: Washington County has the second-highest divorce rate in the state. Separating from one’s spouse can be a stressful event that can lead to depression, alcohol abuse, and other mental health problems.
• Geographic Factors: Oregon has one of the highest suicide rates in the country, with most victims using firearms to end their lives. Those who live in rural areas have limited access to mental health services, which has led to many suicides.
• A Skewed Racial Demographic: The number of Caucasians living in Hillsboro is significantly larger than African-American and Pacific Islanders. Native Americans number fewer than one thousand in the city, which can lead to feelings of isolation and depression in the community.

Despite Hillsboro’s booming technological industry, nearly ten percent of the population of Washington County lives below the poverty line. This puts people in those families at risk for a decline in mental health, no matter their age. In general, men are at greater risk for suicide than women.

Challenges of Obtaining Therapy Service in Hillsboro

Oregon struggles with its reputation as having one of the highest mental illness rates in the United States. This can be especially challenging for the residents of Hillsboro, as the new resources coming into the state are located in Portland, which is nearly 30 minutes away from the city. For those who do not drive or have access to public transportation hubs, finding help can be difficult.

While there are several mental health services in Hillsboro and the immediate area that offer assistance to those who suffer from depression, anxiety, and other disorders, not all of them specialize in the kind of treatment and long-term therapy that might be necessary to prevent suicide or other types of self-harm. This can be especially challenging for those who are actively suicidal and need immediate attention.

Finding Resources in Hillsboro

Individuals who are caught in the grip of a mental illness often feel hopeless, alone, and worthless. They may also feel guilty and feel that they have failed their families, friends, and themselves. However, there are ways to reach out to those who live in Hillsboro, and one of the best places to begin is with the city’s Department of Health and Human Services. They treat several different problems, including addiction, depression, and anxiety.

Washington County currently has a plan in place to prevent as well as treat mental illness. In the meantime, those who are looking for low-cost services can reach out to Pacific University, which offers phone screenings, therapy sessions, and ways for their patients to cope in ways that may help them avoid toxic behaviors.