It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Why I’m Speaking Out About Oregon’s Mental Health Crisis
I’m posting on YouTube for the first time in a long time. It feels a little surreal to be back on that platform, but this conversation needs a longer, deeper dive.
For those who follow me on Instagram or TikTok, you’ve probably seen glimpses of what my family has been going through. My wife and I adopted three kids from foster care. Our two oldest have special needs, and they’ve endured things no child ever should. Abuse. Neglect. Trauma in every possible form.
For over 11 years, we’ve fought to get them the help they need — proper diagnoses, therapy, stability. And despite all of our best efforts, Oregon’s mental health system continues to let them down. This isn’t just our story; it’s the story of so many families across this state.
Oregon’s Mental Health Crisis: The Hard Truth
Oregon ranks dead last in mental health services for children and teens. 51st in the nation. Let that sink in.
And while our family has been able to get some attention from state agencies, it hasn’t been easy. We’ve had to pound on doors, write endless emails, and leverage my social media platform to get anywhere.
But what about the families who don’t have that privilege? The parents who can’t afford to quit their jobs to advocate full-time for their kids? The ones who don’t have a platform to make noise?
They’re left to fend for themselves in a broken system.
Why I’m Sharing This Now
Posting this video on YouTube wasn’t easy. Vulnerability is hard. Talking about this fight, about feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, is hard.
But I’m done staying quiet.
The mental health crisis in Oregon isn’t just a statistic — it’s a daily battle for families like mine. And it won’t get better unless we start demanding change.
I’m calling on Governor Tina Kotek to declare a mental healthcare state of emergency for children and teens in Oregon. It’s long overdue.
It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
In the video, I share something that’s been weighing on me: I’m not okay. and That is Okay!
I like to keep things positive on social media. I like to spread messages of hope, encouragement, and joy. But the truth is, this fight has taken a toll on me.
We shouldn’t have to beg on the internet or quit our jobs just to get our kids the care they need. Mental health is healthcare. And healthcare is a human right.
It’s okay to not be okay. And it’s okay to talk about it.
Watch the Full Video on YouTube
I’m going deeper into all of this in my new YouTube video. If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting an uphill battle to get the care your family needs, this one’s for you.
🎥 Watch here: https://youtu.be/HQITGHgBEEk
Let’s keep this conversation going. Because things need to change.
— Andy