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Welcome to the Latest News page where you will find the latest news and information on the Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency. This page is updated regularly, so check back often.

Crisis Response Warmline:  410-768-5522
24 hours a day, 7 days a week

 

CLICK HERE for resources, activities, suggested books and more for Adult Mental Health

CLICK HERE for Week One tips, activities and more for Children's Mental Health

This May for Mental Health Awareness Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) is sending the message that no one’s mental health is fully supported until everyone’s mental health is supported. 

CLICK HERE to download AFSP's #MentalHealth4All campaign for Mental Health Awareness, featuring a list of simple steps to encourage your friends, family, and community to take care of their mental health. 

Join AFSP for their 2nd Maryland Hike for Hope during May, Mental Health Awareness Month. Donate $25 or more to register, and participate as an individual or team. Choose any mountain/trail and climb/hike anytime between May 1st to 31st. Once registered you will receive a Maryland Hike for Hope shirt in the mail.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Hike for Hope or to register

AFSP will also be holding a Paws for Prevention Walk! Instead of gathering as a big group they encourage you to walk your four legged friends anywhere and anytime to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Participate as an individual or team. Choose any walk route between May 1st to 31st. Everyone who raises $20 by May 31st will receive an AFSP pooch bandana and everyone who raises $100 or more will receive a Paws for Prevention walk shirt in the mail.

CLICK HERE to learn more about the Paws for Prevention Walk or to register

The National Center for School Mental Health, The University of Maryland School of Medicine and Central East ATTC will be hosting a free virtual webinar on Wednesday, May 5th from 3 PM-4 PM. The subject of this webinar is Youth MOVE: Leveraging Youth Advocacy. To register, CLICK HERE

 

The National Education Association will be hosting a virtual roundtable on Friday, May 7th from 8 PM-9 PM. Join them for a discussion with educators and allies on facing mental health issues in their own lives, classrooms, and in the political arena. They will be sharing amazing resources from partners at University of Maryland National Center for School Mental Health, and ways to get involved in political advocacy for mental health issues. CLICK HERE to register!

NAMI Maryland will be hosting their second annual NAMIWalks Your Way event on Saturday, May 22nd. To find out how you can participate or donate CLICK HERE

                         

                                           

A Proclamation on National Mental Health Awareness Month, 2021
APRIL 30, 2021 • PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS

Mental health is essential to our overall health, and the importance of attending to mental health has become even more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has not only negatively impacted many people’s mental health but has also created barriers to treatment.

Millions of adults and children across America experience mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Nearly one in five Americans lives with a mental health condition. Those living with mental health conditions are our family, friends, classmates, neighbors, and coworkers. Before the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies could discriminate against people based on pre-existing conditions, including mental health conditions, and mental health and substance use services were not covered by insurance. Still discrimination against those with mental health conditions in our society remains, and can make it difficult to find and reach out for help. While our Nation has made progress in promoting mental health services, many communities face pervasive barriers in accessing mental health care.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic crisis has impacted the mental health of millions of Americans. Isolation, sickness, grief, job loss, food instability, and loss of routines has increased the need for mental health services. At the same time, the need to protect people from COVID-19 has made it more challenging for people to access mental health services, and harder for providers to deliver this care. 

Even before COVID-19, the prevalence of mental health conditions in our Nation was on the rise. In 2019, nearly 52 million adults experienced some form of mental illness. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that one in four adults reported experiencing symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder in February 2021 — a significant increase from the prior year. Youth mental health is also worsening, with nearly 10 percent of America’s youth reporting severe depression. We must treat this as the public health crisis that it is and reverse this trend.

Too many people with mental health needs feel they have nowhere to turn. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States and the second leading cause of death for our Nation’s youth today. Suicide rates are disproportionately high among Black youth, and LGBTQI+ persons are at disproportionate risk of death by suicide as well as suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts. My Administration is committed to advancing suicide prevention best practices and improving non-punitive crisis response. Even as we build and enhance existing systems for prevention and response within communities, immediate assistance is available for those in need of help by calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or by calling 1-800-662-HELP. 

My Administration is committed to ensuring that people living with mental health conditions are treated with compassion, respect, and understanding. We must also address the disparities that underserved communities, especially communities of color, face and work to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, quality, and evidence-based mental health care.

As President, I know that we can and must address these critical issues, especially for those who have shouldered the burden of standing on the front lines in responding to the pandemic. That is why the American Rescue Plan includes substantial investments to promote mental health among the health care workforce. We are also building on the progress made through the 21st Century Cures Act by integrating mental health and addiction treatment into primary care settings, schools, and homes.

My Administration is focused on building an improved, expanded system of care for the mental health needs of adults and children. This will require an increase in the number of mental health professionals. Building on a program in the American Rescue Plan, I have requested $1 billion in funding to expand the number of school-based mental health professionals, including school psychologists and counselors to address the mental health needs of students. The American Rescue Plan also delivered $3 billion for substance use and mental health care block grants. These funds also ensure that States provide pathways to prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery services — especially for underserved communities. The American Rescue Plan also included $420 million in funding to support Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics to expand access to high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health services. Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics are also committed to involving peers and families, who are essential to mental health recovery.

My Administration is committed to ensuring that everyone knows that they are not alone, that help exists, and that we will provide the mental health support needed to heal, recover, and thrive.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2021 as National Mental Health Awareness Month. I call upon citizens, government agencies, organizations, healthcare providers, and research institutions to raise mental health awareness and continue helping Americans live longer, healthier lives.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fifth.

                                 JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

 

Posted: 05/03/2021

 

 

It's Mental Health Awareness Month! The Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency & Anne Arundel County Department of Health are celebrating with 12 days of Spring into Wellness Tips for your mind, body, spirit and kind acts. Share your tips and selfies with the hashtag #BeWellAA on your Facebook, Instagram or Twitter account!

Posted: 05/03/2021

Central East ATTC will be holding a free virtual training on Friday, May 7th from 9:00 AM-Noon. The topic will be Co-Occurring Disorders: Comprehensive, Continuous, Integrated System of Care (CCISC) and this will be presented by Dr. Anthony Estreet, PhD, LCSW-C, LCADC.

This training is suitable for all staff who interact with patients or clients, and may include intake staff, reception staff and personnel, drivers, maintenance staff and all professional staff.

3 NAADAC contact hours will be available, and learning objectives include:

For more information or to register, CLICK HERE

Questions about this training can be emailed to training@danyainstitute.org

Posted: 05/04/2021

CLICK HERE to view PTO Today's list of resources for Teacher Appreciation Week 2021

CLICK HERE to download the National PTA's Teacher Appreciation Week Toolkit

CLICK HERE to learn about the National Education Association's Text Campaign to thank educators for all they do.

The National Center for School Mental Health, The University of Maryland School of Medicine and Central East ATTC will be hosting a free virtual webinar on Wednesday, May 5th from 3 PM-4 PM. The subject of this webinar is Youth MOVE: Leveraging Youth Advocacy. To register, CLICK HERE

The National Education Association will be hosting a virtual roundtable on Friday, May 7th from 8 PM-9 PM. Join them for a discussion with educators and allies on facing mental health issues in their own lives, classrooms, and in the political arena. They will be sharing amazing resources from partners at University of Maryland National Center for School Mental Health, and ways to get involved in political advocacy for mental health issues. CLICK HERE to register!

 

Posted: 05/04/2021

Please join us on Zoom on Thursday, May 13th for our fifth evening with Kevin Hines. He will present his 10-step Art of Wellness and will later be joined for a live Q & A by Kim Klump and Greg Reuss, who are both with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

This is part of a free series to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

To view the flyer, click HERE

To go directly to the registration page, click HERE

Posted: 04/09/2021

 

May 2nd through 8th is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week in 2021. Recognizing the importance of mental health awareness and the expressive power of artistic pursuits, Maryland’s First Lady, Mrs. Yumi Hogan, invites children and youth to participate in a statewide art project. Children and youth are asked to create artwork expressing something which makes them feel happy, healthy, and/or hopeful. A selection of artwork will be showcased online for the First Lady’s Mental Health Awareness Youth Art Display on Monday, May 3. We invite your school to participate! Deadline to submit artwork is April 9, 2021. 

To view or download the flyer for this event, click HERE

To submit artwork online click HERE

Posted: 03/26/2021

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).The University of Maryland School of Medicine Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling invites you to help in promoting awareness of problem gambling and taking action to foster the health and well-being of Maryland residents. 

Tuesday, March 9th is Gambling Disorder Screening Day. Click here for information to educate and support providers in screening for gambling disorders.

For more resources, click here to visit the center's website.

Posted: 03/04/2021

The Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency's Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was updated on March 2, 2021.

Click here for our current MOA.

Posted: 03/03/2021

Preregistration and appointment links are below:

Anne Arundel County Department of Health:
https://aacounty.org/covidvax

Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center:
https://living.aahs.org/community-vaccine-clinics/

University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center:
umbwmc.org/getthevaccine

Giant Food (Glen Burnie and Annapolis):
https://giantfood.com/pages/covid-info

For Veterans, VA Maryland Health Care System:
https://www.maryland.va.gov/services/covid-19-vaccines.asp

Maryland Department of Health Vaccination Site Locator:
https://maryland.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/nearby/index.html?appid=0dbfb100676346ed9758be319ab3f40c&find=

Posted: 02/03/2021

Click HERE for our updated Privacy Notice.

Posted: 01/28/2021

From the Maryland Department of Labor:

On December 27, the federal COVID-19 relief package, called the “Continued Assistance for Unemployment Workers Act” that extends the CARES Act programs and provides additional federal unemployment benefits, was signed into law. Labor has reviewed the legislation and is working with the vendor to begin programming the four new and On extended programs in the BEACON system. 

However, the department is waiting to receive complete and detailed guidance from the U.S. Department of Labor for each program before it can be implemented and paid in Maryland. States cannot move forward without this critical guidance and it is likely that guidance will be issued early in the new year. As the guidance is received, Maryland will modify the BEACON system and implement each program as quickly as possible to bring much-needed relief to eligible claimants. 

Please note that while there will be no gap in benefit eligibility because the PUA, PEUC, FPUC, and MEUC programs are retroactive to the week ending Saturday, January 2, 2021, for eligible claimants, there may be a delay in the receipt of payment. However, rest assured that eligible claimants will receive ALL benefits they are owed backdated to their earliest date of eligibility within the extended and additional programs. 

 Click here for an overview of the four programs.

Posted: 01/05/2021

Innovative solutions to address the mental health crisis: Shifting away from police as first responders

The Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency's Crisis Response System was featured in a Brookings Institute Report on innovative solutions to address mental health crisis.

Click here for the full report.

Posted: 12/01/2020

Coping with Anxiety: Youth in 2020 was designed to provide information, insight, and resources to youth about coping with anxiety in our new environment. This discussion features various mental health professionals from the Anne Arundel County Public Schools, Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency, and the Anne Arundel County Department of Health. 

The forum will premiere on AACPS-TV on Wednesday (11/11) at 6:00 pm and rebroadcast on Wed. 11/25 at 6 pm.  AACPS-TV can be seen on Comcast HD Channel 996, FiOS/Verizon HD Channel 1961, or Broad Stripe HD Channel 496.

The forum can be viewed NOW on the AACPS You Tube Channel using this link https://youtu.be/XddxocyvddE.

Posted: 11/13/2020

The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration has updated the Provider Application for Licensure Under COMAR 10.63 Community-Based Behavioral Health Programs and Services.

Application for Licensure Under COMAR 10.63 Application (revised 10/2020)

For more information, visit the BHA Accreditation and Licensing Information website.

Posted: 11/06/2020

Visit the OpenArundel website for current data on the Anne Arundel County Cross-Departmental COVID-19 Response.

Posted: 11/04/2020

Tips, helpful books, activities and journal prompts for children and parents.

Click here to see the full list.

Posted: 10/29/2020

Take an online depression screening.

Whether for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or depression, health screenings provide a quick and easy way to spot the first signs of serious illness and can reach people who might not otherwise seek professional medical advice.

Major depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting 6.7% (more than 16 million) of American adults each year.[1]

Like screenings for other illnesses, depression screenings should be a routine part of healthcare.

Why Screen For Depression?

• Clinical depression is a serious medical illness.
• Clinical depression can lead to suicide.
• Sometimes people with depression mistakenly believe that the symptoms of depression are a "normal part of life."
• Clinical depression affects men and women of all ages, races and socioeconomic groups.
• Only about a third (35.3%) of those suffering from severe depression seek treatment from a mental health professional. [2]
• Depression can co-occur and complicate other medical conditions.
• Screenings are often the first step in getting help.

Who Should Get Screened?

People suffering from depression often experience some of these key symptoms:

• A persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood
• Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
• Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Restlessness or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Screenings are not a professional diagnosis. Screenings point out the presence or absence of depressive symptoms and provide a referral for further evaluation if needed. You should see your doctor or a qualified mental health professional if you experience five or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.

Learn More About Depression:

Depression

Life with Depression

Co-occurring Disorders and Depression

 

Sources

[1] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Results from the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Mental Health Findings, NSDUH Series H-49, HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4887. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2014.

[2] Pratt LA, Brody DJ. Depression in the U.S. household population, 2009–2012. NCHS data brief, no 172. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2014.[2] Pratt LA, Brody DJ. Depression in the U.S. household population, 2009–2012. NCHS data brief, no 172. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. 2014.

Posted: 10/08/2020

The Anne Arundel Mental Health Task Force has issued their Summary Report.

Click here for the full report.

Posted: 10/08/2020

The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration has issued their 2020-2021 Behavioral Health Plan.

Click here for the Plan Memo.

Click here for the Plan Document.

Posted: 10/06/2020

Crisis Response Warmline - (410) 768-5522

Network of Care - Mental Health Provider Directory for Anne Arundel County

Behavioral Health Resources Page - Anne Arundel County

Posted: 10/02/2020

Click here to view the infographic.

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
• 1 in 25 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
• 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34

Crisis Response Warmline - (410) 768-5522

Posted: 10/02/2020

TCM III and 1915(i) Services 

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) has made several changes to the 1915(i) Intensive Behavioral Health Services program and the Targeted Case Management (TCM) for Children and Youth Level III participant enrollment criteria that will go into effect October 1, 2020. These changes will affect the types of services provided by 1915(i) facilities (PT 89) as well as participant enrollment criteria for both 1915(i) and TCM Level III services. The intent of these changes is to expand access and utilization of these services to eligible individuals. 

Click here for the Provider Alert.

Posted: 10/01/2020

Click here to read the September 4, 2020 letter from the Deputy Secretary for Behavioral Health.

Posted: 09/15/2020

PRP Frequently Asked Questions and Training Opportunities

Optum Maryland and the Maryland Department of Health have developed a Frequently Asked Questions document which will serve as an ongoing resource for Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP) providers.

Click here for the Provider Alert.

Posted: 09/15/2020

The Art of Recovery

July 08, 2020 to August 29, 2020

Brought to Maryland Hall by Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency in partnership with Recovery Anne Arundel, The Art of Recovery showcases how artists use their talents to express what words cannot. Their art helps celebrate the joys of recovery and demonstrates the many conditions artists face ranging from homelessness, mental health, and addiction.

Many of the artists are from Arundel Lodge, a local non-profit helping adults, children, and families impacted by mental health and substance use disorders, and Chrysalis House, an addiction treatment center for women and children.

Click here to view the exhibit.

Posted: 07/23/2020

Posted: 07/17/2020

It is with tremendous pride that I would like to announce that the Anne Arundel County Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) was selected for the 2020 CIT International Crisis Intervention Team Award.  Through the partnership and teamwork of the Anne Arundel County Police Department and the Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency’s Crisis Response System, they are able to work collaboratively to de-escalate critical situations and identify the needs of an individual or group in crisis.   By doing so, they are able to take an unmanageable situation and bring it to a safe and favorable resolution by exhibiting extraordinary professionalism, compassion and respect. There were many outstanding nominations, but the exceptional work that this team performed throughout the year stood out above and beyond all others.  Their abilities and contributions are an important key to the success of the Crisis Response System.  The citizens of this county are fortunate to have these dedicated individuals who make this county a place where people want to live, work and play--truly the best place for all.

Congratulations to being the 2020 International CIT of the Year!  Their work is greatly respected and appreciated!

Adrienne J. Mickler, Executive Director

Posted: 07/14/2020

In response to the COVID-19 global pandemic, many individuals and families have been affected. As a result, Catholic Charities of Baltimore has launched a bilingual SNAP telephone hotline to assist with SNAP applications.

Help is available by calling the bilingual SNAP hotline at 667-600-2291 between 8:30 am – 5:00 pm Monday – Friday.

Benefit Counselors are also available at 667-305-6024 or 443-885-9707 to assist with additional benefits.

Pandemic EBT Frequently Asked Questions

SNAP Online FAQ

Beneficios de emergencia están disponibles

Posted: 07/09/2020

Click here to see the letter from the Deputy Secretary for Behavioral Health.

Posted: 07/09/2020

The purpose of this tool is to assist behavioral health providers in planning for safe, long-term organizational preparedness during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are universal preparedness questions that all providers should consider, however, there is not a one size fits all approach to planning for continuity of operations.

Click here for the checklist.

Posted: 06/19/2020

The Maryland Behavioral Health Administration issued responses to questions on their FY 21 Crisis Response Services Request For Proposals.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 06/11/2020

PROVIDER ALERT

Letter from BHA Deputy Secretary

June 5, 2020

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) regularly releases updated guidance, resources and FAQs on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). 
 
Today, BHA is releasing a letter from Deputy Secretary Dr. Aliya Jones to the behavioral health community summarizing the actions BHA has taken over the last month. The letter also addresses the past week’s civil unrest.
 
Read the letter from BHA Deputy Secretary Dr. Aliya Jones.
 
Updated COVID-19 resources: 

• FAQs for Behavioral Health Partners (updated June 4)
• FAQs for Opioid Treatment Programs and Buprenorphine Providers (updated June 4)

BHA will continue to update behavioral health COVID-19 related FAQs on the BHA website. Please visit frequently for the latest information. Also, please submit any COVID-19 related questions here or you can email bha.inquiries@maryland.gov.
 

Posted: 06/08/2020

Anne Arundel County Local Behavioral Health Authority

     

FY 21 Annual Plan

Posted: 06/04/2020

This week we honor those law enforcement officers who protect and serve the public during National Police Week, Sunday May 10 – Saturday May 16.  Our officers on the front lines are increasingly vulnerable to contracting the COVID-19 virus, yet they continue to serve all of us with dedication, honor and dignity.  These men and women are true heroes of our community and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.  Members of the community can honor Fallen Law Enforcement Officers during a Virtual Candlelight Vigil on May 13 at 8:00 pm Eastern at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memoral Fund website. 

Posted: 05/12/2020

In the last month, as the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically slowed the U.S. economy,more than 50 0 Maryland families asked Catholic Charities for help with expenses.

In response, on April 22, Catholic Charities expanded its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, hotline to reach a wider community throughout the state, and added Spanish-language capability.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 05/12/2020

Inspector General Warns About New Social Security Benefit Suspension Scam

The Social Security Office of the Inspector General has received reports that Social Security beneficiaries have received letters through the U.S. Mail stating their payments will be suspended or discontinued unless they call a phone number referenced in the letter. Scammers may then mislead beneficiaries into providing personal information or payment via retail gift cards, wire transfers, internet currency, or by mailing cash, to maintain regular benefit payments during this period of COVID-19 office closures.

Social Security will never:

• Threaten you with benefit suspension, arrest, or other legal action unless you pay a fine or fee.
• Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment.
• Require payment by retail gift card, cash, wire transfer, internet currency, or prepaid debit card.
• Demand secrecy from you in handling a Social Security-related problem.
• Send official letters or reports containing personally identifiable information via email.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 05/12/2020

The artwork was created by students accross the state depicting what makes them feel happy, healthy, and/or hopeful.  Submitted work comes from 247 participants, 35 unique schools/programs, and 16 different counties.

Please join us in celebrating these artists and their work!

View Website Gallery

Posted: 05/06/2020

Updated COVID-19 FAQ and Resources

May 5, 2020

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) has released new and updated resources on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19):

New

• BHA created an interactive Telehealth Map outlining known behavioral health providers now offering telehealth services across the state.

Update Resources:

• FAQ for Telehealth (updated May 4)
• Recovery and Wellness Support Resources (includes an updated list of virtual self-help an dother support for those seeking or in recovery) (updated May 4)
• Mental Health Supports
  • BHA developed an extensive list of webinars, trainings, support groups, info guides for clinicians, and info guides for the general public.  This resource is updated regularly here.  If you see a resource that w ehave not included, let us know:  bha.inquiries@maryland.gov.

BHA will continue to update behavioral health COVID-19 related FAQs on the BHA website.  Please visit frequently for the latest information.  Also, please submit any COVID-19 related questions here or you can email bha.inquiries@maryland.gov.

Optum Maryland would like to reassure providers that all of our services are operating as normal during the current national response to COVID-19.  Providers can continue to contact us at 1 (800) 888-1965.  After-hours and holidays will be covered by clinical night staff for crisis and emergency services.

Thank you,

Optum Maryland Team

Posted: 05/06/2020

Since 2004, Oasis has been offering a safe and supportive refuge for individuals and families seeking
relief. Our team of board-certified experts works to help every patient become a better version of
themselves. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, let Oasis: The Center for Mental Health
help you find peace. Contact us today for a free screening and to set an appointment.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 04/29/2020

New eviction prevention program first of its kind in the state 

Annapolis, MD (April 15).  Today County Executive Steuart Pittman announced a new Eviction Prevention Program that will help renters struggling to pay rent or utility bills because of recent job loss or employment disruption in the wake of the COVID-19 public health crisis.  

Click here for the full news release.

Posted: 04/27/2020

Stay tuned for daily updates with information, activities and more in the month of May!

Posted: 04/21/2020

April 20, 2020 marks the 3 year anniversary of the Safe Stations program!  Safe Stations has assessed 3,461 in the first 3 years of the program.  Thanks to this unique partnership, we anticipate continued success in the future.

Posted: 04/20/2020

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Network of Care team is working with our content partners to ensure that every Network of Care website provides comprehensive, continually updated resources at the local, state and national levels. Please find this content in your local Network of Care website at the red “Coronavirus (COVID-19)” bar near the top of every page.

Click here for the full press release.

Posted: 04/14/2020

70 Things to Do with Kids Now That We’re All Stuck at Home

Click here for the full list.

Posted: 04/07/2020

PROVIDER ALERT:  Advice for Submitting Uninsured Requests

April 3, 2020

Optum Maryland would like to share with providers some important information on the correct way to submit Uninsured requests in order to avoid delays in processing.

Click here to view the full alert.

Posted: 04/06/2020

Anne Arundel County Police Department compiled the following list of resources:

Posted: 04/01/2020

Updated COVID-19 FAQs for Telehealth, BHA Partners, and OTPs

March 27, 2020

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) has released updated FAQs on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19):

Click to view:

• FAQs on Telehealth (March 27)

• FAQs for Behavioral Health Partners (updated March 26)

• FAQs for Opioid Treatment Programs (updated March 26)

BHA will continue to update the COVID-19 related FAQs every Tuesday and Friday. Please submit your questions here or you can email bha.inquiries@maryland.gov.

Optum Maryland would like to reassure providers that all of our services are operating as normal during the current national response to COVID-19. Providers can continue to contact us at 1 (800) 888-1965. After-hours and holidays will be covered by clinical night staff for crisis and emergency services.

Thank you,

Optum Maryland Team

Posted: 03/30/2020

Managing Suicidal Clients During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 03/30/2020

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

The Maryland EIP and our partners are taking measures to support public health during these difficult times. We acknowledge the stress of coping with COVID-19 among providers, consumers, friends, and family. To that end, please find specific resources below on coping with COVID-19 and adjusting during this time. As a reminder, there are also helpful early psychosis resources that are available online at www.MarylandEIP.com.

General Resources and Info on Protecting Your Mental Health

• The Mental Health Association of Maryland has compiled a list of resources to protect your wellbeing at this time (this will be updated daily).

• The Maryland Coalition for Families has resources for recovery supports during this pandemic, including for Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Gamblers Anonymous (GA) groups.

• The Suicide Prevention Resource Center also has a number of resources for coping with COVID-19.

• The National Alliance on Mental Illness has also released a comprehensive guide to answer frequently asked questions regarding the intersection between COVID-19 and mental health, in addition to an article on coping skills to use during this time.

• For general information on COVID-19 and information on ways to protect your mental health, please visit our partner’s resource guide at the National Center for School Mental Health.

• SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline also provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. More information can be found here.

  • If you, or someone you care about, are feeling overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression, or anxiety, or feel like you want to harm yourself or others call 911.

For Providers

• The Maryland Department of Health’s Behavioral Health Administration has a comprehensive list of resources for the community and providers.

• Behavioral Health System Baltimore has COVID-19 Prevention and Response Resources for providers, including specific state guidance on mental health services. Further Baltimore-specific resources can be found here.

• Maryland Association of Behavioral Health Authorities also offers county-specific information for providers in Maryland.

• The American Psychological Association has a free office and technology checklist for telepsychological services and has also made their Telepsychology Best Practice 101 Series freely available.

 Early Psychosis Resources

• Our website now has a revamped Resource area with extensive early psychosis information for providers, consumers, family, and friends.

• Maryland’s Behavioral Health website has 24 free modules on early psychosis for individuals interested in supporting youth/young adult mental health

Please follow us on Facebook for weekly updates and more information.

Take care,

The Maryland EIP

Posted: 03/30/2020

The Institute for Innovation & Implementation has released two Special Guidance Reports on Wraparound and FOCUS modifications to effectively support young people and families during COVID-19, while also adhering to public health and safety standards.

Posted: 03/27/2020

Optum has released a Provider Alert: Telephone Services Authorized During State of Emergency for Mobile Treatment and ACT Services

Click here to see the full alert.

Posted: 03/27/2020

Tips for Caregivers on Media Coverage of Upsetting Events

These tips include information on Understanding Media Exposure and What Parents/Caregivers Can Do to Help.  This resource has been translated into the following languages:

• Arabic
• English
• French
• Spanish
• Swahili

Posted: 03/26/2020

There is a need for health care personnel who are in close contact with ill patients to have adequate protection.  Given the unprecedented demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), extraordinary measures to conserve PPE were issued on March 23, 2020 by the Maryland Secretary of Health Robert Neall.

Click here for the full order.

Posted: 03/25/2020

Toolkit for Responder Self-Care/Psychological First Aid (PFA)

Responder self-care is a critical component of Psychological First Aid. Responders deploy on short notice, face terror and destruction, and work long hours. These challenges make normal mechanisms of self-care difficult to access and easy to overlook.

It is imperative for responders to tend to their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Without adequate self-care, fatigue, adrenaline, and a desire to help can lead to ineffective, or even regrettable, decisions and practices.

Self-care includes actions taken before, during and after deployment.

Click here for more information.

Posted: 03/24/2020

The Maryland Department of Health (MDH) Behavioral Health Administration (BHA) released three communications with guidelines for expanded telehealth services as a result of COVID-19 during the state of emergency on March 21, 2020.

• Telephone Services Authorized for General Health Care Services [attachment 4a]
• Telephone Services Authorized for Behavioral Health Services [attachment 4b]
• Telehealth Services Authorized for Psychiatric Rehabilitation Programs (PRP) [attachment 4c]

These documents are posted on the BHA website as well.

For questions about the information included in these guidelines, please email BHA at ivajean.smith@maryland.gov.

Posted: 03/23/2020

Notice - As of March 19, 2020, Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency's main office located at 1 Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD will be closed to the public.  For assistance, please call (410) 222-7858.

As always, our Crisis Response System Warmline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (410) 768-5522.

Thank you.

Posted: 03/18/2020

On March 5, 2020, a state of emergency and a catastrophic health emergency was proclaimed
in Maryland. Recognizing that this may impact the State’s ability to timely process renewals of
expiring permits, licenses, and registrations, Governor Hogan issued an Executive Order
governing said licenses. The Executive Order extends licenses that would expire during this
period of a state of emergency.

Click here for the full memo from the Behavioral Health Administration.

Posted: 03/19/2020

Click here for the FY 18 Annual Report and FY 20 Annual Plan.

Posted: 06/13/2019

The 2019 Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNA) report about Anne Arundel County is now available.

Posted: 02/27/2019

Click here for more information.

Posted: 06/12/2019

Updated list of the sites where individuals can go and receive assistance with applying for insurance (Medicaid, QHPs through Maryland Health Connection). Please reach out to Kristina Dickinson, at kristinadickinson@aacounty.org, with any questions you may have.

Click here to view the updated list.

Posted: 02/01/2019

This chapter:

A. Prohibits inappropriate sexual behavior in covered programs; and

B. Adopts awareness and prevention training and reporting requirements regarding inappropriate sexual behavior that a covered program shall fulfill in order to be licensed by the Department or any of its Administrations, or approved by the Department or any of its Administrations to receive funding to provide services in Maryland.

For more information on this chapter of COMAR, please visit the following website:

COMAR 10.01.18

Reporting Form (MDH 4749)

Posted: 01/31/2019

Please click here for an important message from the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners regarding new requirements for Criminal History Record Checks for Renewal.

Posted: 07/02/2018

Please click here.

Posted: 02/12/2018

Please click here to see the attached notice from Beacon- Fentanyl

Posted: 01/17/2018

Beacon Provider Alert Balancing Incentive Program DLA-20 Training and Implementation Update CLICK here.

Posted: 12/23/2016

Future of Human Health and Medicine Organization (FHHMO) is hosting Teen Mental Health Night: Virtual Edition on Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at 7:00 pm. Two Licensed Clinical Social Workers, LaToya Nkongolo LCSW-C, LCADC and Denise Courtney LCSW-C will be discussing Teen Mental Health and answering audience questions. Mallory Snodgrass, a teen mental health advocate, will be hosting the event and it will be moderated by Dr. Marc Brassard M.D. Teen Mental Health Night: Virtual Edition will be streamed live through Twitch and audience members will have the opportunity to text their questions to be answered live.

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Posted: 07/09/2020

In this live interactive virtual training, you will learn about the core concepts of mind resilience, including sense of competency, problem solving & coping skills, and caring & respect for self and others.

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Posted: 07/30/2020

This training will cover challenges and opportunities when working with a rapidly growing and changing geriatric population. Attendees will gain an understanding of the continuum of care for the aging population encounter and additional resources for the geriatric population will be provided.

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Posted: 08/05/2020

The Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA) is an evidence based behavioral treatment for youth and young adults with substance use related concerns. It includes aspects of Motivational Interviewing, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Participants must agree to respond to occasional brief email surveys about their use of A-CRA.

Click here for more information.

Any questions about this training should be directed to Melissa Ambrose at mambrose@som.umaryland.edu.

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Posted: 11/18/2020

Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence- based practice used to identify, reduce, and prevent problematic use, abuse, and dependence on alcohol and illicit drugs. 
 
Through this SBIRT with Adolescents training, providers learn how to screen for substance use, reinforce healthy lifestyle choices, utilize the steps of the brief intervention,and facilitate referrals to appropriate treatment. SBIRT is brief,widely used in a variety of settings/roles, and benefits individuals at all levels of substance use (including abstinence). 

CLICK HERE for more information and to register

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Posted: 01/06/2021

This is the first in a series of presentations featuring Kevin Hines.He is a best selling author, global public speaker, and award winning documentary filmmaker. In the Year 2000, Kevin attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. Kevin’s will to live and stay mentally well has inspired people worldwide. His compelling story has touched diverse, global audiences within colleges and universities, high schools, corporations, clergy, military, clinicians, health and medical communities, law enforcement organizations, and various industries. This event will focus on first respinders and clinicians, and will include a Q & A with AACNHA's Lt. Steven Thomas and Jennifer Corbin.

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Posted: 02/11/2021

This free virtual training will include topics such as ethical codes, applying state and federal laws related to behavioral helath services, and major ethical/legal principles. This course is appropriate for all staff who interact with clients or patients including intake staff, reception area personnel, drivers, maintenance staff, and professional staff.

For more information or to register, click here

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Posted: 02/24/2021

This is the second in a series of presentations to raise awareness for suicide prevention featuring Kevin Hines.

He is a best selling author, global public speaker, and award winning documentary filmmaker. In the Year 2000, Kevin attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. His compelling story has touched diverse, global audiences within colleges, high schools, corporations, clergy, military, clinicians, health and medical communities, law enforcement organizations, more.

This event will focus on youth and adolescents , and will include a Q & A with Heather Baginski and Brendel Mitchell of Maryland Coalition of Families,

To view the flyer, click here

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Posted: 03/08/2021

The National  Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Anne Arundel County(AACO) will be conducting a free online 8-week Family to Family Education course beginning on Wednesday, April 14th(6:30-9:00 PM ). 

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Posted: 03/26/2021

Please join us on Zoom on Thursday, Aprill 22 for our fourth evening with Kevin Hines. He will present his 10-step Art of Wellness and will later be joined for a live Q & A by Stephanie Slowly, MSW, LCSW-C , Acting Chief of Staff and Director-System Management at the Maryland Behaviroal Health Administration. 

This is part of a free series to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

To view the flyer, click HERE.

To go directly to the registration, click HERE

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Posted: 04/09/2021

Please join us on Zoom on Thursday, May 13th for our fifth evening with Kevin Hines. He will present his 10-step Art of Wellness and will later be joined for a live Q & A by Kim Klump and Greg Reuss, who are both with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

This is part of a free series to raise awareness for suicide prevention

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Posted: 04/09/2021

Please join us on Zoom on Thursday, April 22 for our fourth evening with Kevin Hines. He will present his 10-step Art of Wellness and will later be joined for a live Q & A by Stephanie Slowly (Maryland Behavioral Health Administration) and Kate Farenholt (National Alliance on Mental Illness Maryland).

This is part of a free series to raise awareness for suicide prevention.

To view the flyer click HERE

To go directly to the registration page click HERE

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Posted: 04/14/2021

This free virtual course is one in a series of trainings intended to improve outcomes for patients who have co-occurring disorders and improve organizational outcomes, staff morale, and organizational efficiencies.

For more information and to view the flyer, click HERE

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Posted: 05/03/2021