2021 Virtual
Legislative Briefing

February 22, 2021 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. 

As Maryland continues working to respond to the death and disruption caused by the coronavirus, how do we grapple with a corresponding increase in COVID-19 related mental health and substance use disorders? This is the question we will consider at the MHAMD 2021 Virtual Legislative Briefing on February 22 at 3:00 p.m.

The coronavirus has left us facing the worst behavioral health crisis of our lifetime. Up to 40% of Marylanders report feeling anxious or depressed as a result of the pandemic and state crisis hotlines are receiving a startling increase in calls from individuals at risk for suicide. Drug-and-alcohol-related deaths jumped by more than 18% in the second quarter of 2020 as compared to the same period a year earlier, including a 30% increase in opioid-related deaths.

This striking surge in behavioral health challenges, coupled with a looming and potentially long-term state budget crisis, is poised to have a devastating impact on families across Maryland. Meeting the challenges ahead will require a comprehensive strategy, smart investment and efficient use of resources. But most of all, it will require the unity and commitment of Maryland’s behavioral health community.

Never has our work been more critical.

MHAMD’s Annual Legislative Briefing is the only event of its kind—bringing together hundreds of behavioral health professionals, business and nonprofit leaders, concerned citizens, and legislators during the state’s legislative session to learn about public policy issues that will impact Marylanders’ behavioral health care.

 

Thank you to our platinum sponsor

 

THANK YOU TO OUR GOLD SPONSORS

THANK YOU TO OUR SILVER SPONSORS:

Associated Catholic Charities

Community Behavioral Health Association

GRF CPAs & Advisors

Maryland Association of Behavioral Health Authorities

National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence—MD Chapter

On Our Own of Maryland

Sheppard Pratt

University of Maryland Psychiatry