Mental Health & Self Care
Anti-Bullying Policies & Enumeration
- Anti-bullying laws and policies at the state and local levels are common components of current bullying prevention efforts. Every state external icon has an anti-bullying law or policy. Many local school districts also establish anti-bullying policies.
Bullying in College: How it Happens and What You Can Do to Stop It
https://www.trade-schools.net/articles/bullying-in-college
- Bullying does not only happen with younger children. Adults in higher education often find themselves the targets of malicious and demeaning behavior on the part of their peers.
- By arming yourself with the facts, you can be better prepared to bring an end to college bullying.
- Information on bullying that explains what it is, what forms it takes, what effects it has, and (most importantly) what you can do to stop it.
Bullying Prevention
https://marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DSFSS/SSSP/Bullying/index.aspx
- All students have the right to be free from bullying, harassment, or intimidation. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is committed to providing a safe, productive, and inclusive learning environment.
How to Deal with Adult Bullying
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-deal-with-adult-bullying-5187158
- This article explores the different types of adult bullies, what you can do as a victim, bystander, and perpetrator, as well as a few ideas on how to deal with an adult bully. Adult bullying is a severe problem and may require legal action in some circumstances.
Preventing Bullying in College
https://bold.org/blog/preventing-bullying-in-college/
- Bullying and cyberbullying are serious topics with a variety of short-term and long-term implications for all parties involved. Our guide will help stakeholders understand the elements of bullying in college, process how bullying affects others, respond appropriately to bullying, and readily access resources to help others.
Stomp Out Bullying
https://www.stompoutbullying.org/
- STOMP Out Bullying™ is the leading national nonprofit dedicated to changing the culture for all students. It works to reduce and prevent bullying, cyberbullying and other digital abuse, educates against homophobia, LGBTQIA+ discrimination, racism and hatred, and deters violence in schools, online and in communities across the country.
Stop Bullying
- Parents, school staff, and other adults in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy.
Caregiver Support Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/caregiversupportcommunity/?ref=br_rs
- Virtual Caregiver support group on Facebook. Caregiver Support Community is a welcoming and supportive group intended for family caregivers — not for professional caregivers, nursing home workers, former caregivers, or anyone selling products or services. Before you join, the group asks you to share your caregiving story.
Caring Matters Virtual Caregiver Support Group
https://www.caringmatters.org/caregiversupportgroup
- Open to caregivers of all ages, from all parts of Montgomery County, MD
- For those caring in their homes for loved ones with serious illness
- Weekly, one-hour, online meetings (zoom link will be provided)
- Planned for 4 sessions, with the opportunity to extend
- Dates and times will be determined with input from interested participants
- Free of Charge
Carroll County Caregiver Support Groups
- This group is for caregivers of people 60 years of age or older or with an early onset of dementia. It meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 4:00 pm to 5:30pm at the Bureau of Aging & Disabilities, 125 Stoner Avenue, Westminster.
- A support group for grandparents raising grandchildren is held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 5:30pm to 7:00pm.
Guide to Community Resources
https://www.caregiver.org/resource/caregiving-home-guide-community-resources/
- This fact sheet presents an overview of the different services and programs available to caregivers and individuals with cognitive disorders or other chronic health conditions. Organizations listed throughout the fact sheet can help you locate specific assistance. Additional information is provided in the Resources section at the end of the fact sheet.
Maryland Coalition of Families Support Group
- Meets Second Tuesday of Each Month, 11:00 Am – 12:30 Pm
- For Additional Information and To Receive Online Meeting Link, Contact Cindy Kirk Via Email or Call 443-741-8672.
- For parents and caregivers of young people with mental health or substance use needs. Get a lift and support from other families struggling with these same challenges.
National Cancer Institute Resources
https://www.cancer.gov/resources-for/caregivers
- In addition to authoritative information about each type of cancer, NCI provides information to help you care for the cancer patient in your life — and yourself. We also provide general information about cancer, the latest cancer research and access to NCI-supported clinical trials. For your questions about cancer or help navigating the NCI website, please contact our information specialists.
Smart Patients Caregivers Community
https://www.smartpatients.com/partners/fca
- An extension of the Family Caregiving Alliance, Smart Patients is a free online community where caregivers and their loved ones can share stories, interact and learn from one another when it comes to caregiving. It acts as a tool and community for empowering family caregivers of those with chronic pain or disease, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other debilitating illnesses.
The National Alliance for Caregiving Resources
https://www.caregiving.org/resources/
- Resources provided by the National Alliance for Caregiving Resources including support groups, information about programs and services, and tips for caregiving.
Training Resources for Caregivers
https://dhs.maryland.gov/maryland-commission-caregiving/training-resources-caregivers/
- The Maryland Commission on Caregiving provides different trainings for general caregiving, specific diseases/disorders, and self-care for caregivers themselves.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – MD Chapter
https://afsp.org/chapter/maryland
- Educates communities about mental health & suicide prevention, advocates for public policy, and offers support for suicide loss survivors.
- See their page for more info about their programs (like Seize the Awkward & #RealConvo) & upcoming events in our area.
- AFSP – Have a #RealConvo About Mental Health! Look up Quick Tips & #RealConvo Guides on how to start (and continue) conversations on mental health, reach out for help, and more!
Behavioral Health Resources and Services Directory
https://healthycarroll.org/behavioral-health-resources-services-directory/
- The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County provides a directory that identifies local programs and providers in the areas of mental health and substance abuse, as well as to highlight resources in areas such as prevention, education and employment, disability services, clothing, food, shelter, and legal issues.
Carroll Anti-Stigma Resilience Effort (C.A.R.E.)
The Partnership for a Healthier Carroll County, Inc. 295 Stoner Avenue, Suite 306, Westminster, MD 21157.
410-871-7645
https://healthycarroll.org/c-a-r-e/
- The goal of C.A.R.E. is to improve the lives of those struggling with a mental health or substance abuse concern by increasing knowledge, reducing discrimination, and removing barriers to treatment and recovery. Greater awareness and understanding will let those who need help obtain it within a more supportive community, and ultimately to achieve greater health and well- being.
- Offers connections to mental health and substance abuse concerns resources and support.
Choosing Life in Christ Crosswind Church
640 Lucabaugh Mill Road, Westminster, MD 21157
410-790-1228
- Choosing Life in Christ or C.L.I.C., is a faith-based, peer-led support group that offers Christ-like principles, compassion, and resources for those striving to overcome mental health disorders in themselves or in their loved ones.
Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA)
410-256-7775
www.coda.org
- Co-Dependents Anonymous is a 12-step program of recovery designed to help individuals overcome negative denial, compliance, control, avoidance, and low self- esteem patterns stemming from co-dependence.
MCF Maryland Coalition of Families of Children’s Mental Health
10632 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Suite 234, Columbia, MD 21044-6255
410-730-8267
- To build a network of information and support for families across Maryland and improve services for children with mental health needs and their families.
- Central office listed above, with regional offices located throughout the state. Open to any caregiver of a child with behavioral health needs.
- Serves children with mental health issues from birth to age 18, or up to their 22nd birthday, if in special education.
Mental Wellness Care Group Crossroads Community Church
895 Leidy Road, Westminster MD 21157
https://www.myccc.church/mental-health-support/
- This group for adults offers a safe place for those who struggle with a range of emotions such as depression, loneliness, fear, anxiety, compulsions, and obsessive thoughts.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Carroll County
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Carroll Co. educates, advocates, listens, and leads mental health programs in the county.
- Visit their website for info on services, resources, online support groups, events, and volunteer opportunities.
Pro Bono Counseling Project & the WARMLine
https://probonocounseling.org/
410-825-1001
443-608-9182
211
- If you are a Marylander experiencing stress, anxiety, sadness, grief, a life transition, relationship issues, or any other issue that can be addressed through talk therapy, but you are facing difficulties affording counseling, reach out to the Pro Bono Counseling Project.
- The WARMLine is available weekdays from 10:00AM – 6:00PM.
- If you’re feeling anxious, depressed or just need someone to talk to, call 211 and ask for the WARMLine OR call (443) 608-9182 directly today for help. A mental health professional is standing by to listen to your concerns and refer you to any additional resources you may need.
Vocational Pathways
Mosaic Community Services, Inc.
288 E. Green Street, Westminster, MD 21157
410-876-3007, Ext. 1673
mosaicinc.org/programs-services/vocational-services
- Offers vocational rehabilitation to people with psychiatric disabilities and other barriers to employment. Contact provider for specialty areas.
BridgingLife Hospice
292 Stoner Ave, Westminster, MD 21157
410-871-8000
- Ask to speak to a grief counselor
- Six free counseling sessions
- In person, virtual or over the phone support
- They offer multiple support groups and individual counseling for those experiencing grief.
American Psychological Association
750 First St, NE, Washington, D.C. 20002-4242
800-374-2721
- APA is the leading scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States, with more than 146,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants, and students as its members.
BHS Suicide and Crisis Hotline
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/index.htm
- The CDC’s Mental Health site provides users with a comprehensive science-based, data-driven, service organization to protect the public’s health. The site offers information about Mental Health, data and statistics, a mental health quiz, stress and coping skills, and tools and resources to help you.
Helpguide’s Coronavirus Mental Health Toolkit
2000 N. Beauregard St., 6th floor, Alexandria, VA 22311
800-969-6642
https://www.helpguide.org/coronavirus-mental-health-toolkit.htm
- Help for when you’re feeling trapped, isolated, or anxious to get back to normal life. This toolkit contains short tips you can use to improve your mood, feel less isolated, and ease the stress of social restrictions.
Mental Health America (MHA)
- Mental Health America is the nation’s leading community-based non-profit that promotes mental health as a critical part of overall wellness, including prevention services for all; early identification and intervention for those at risk; integrated care, services, and supports for those who need them; with recovery as the goal.
- MHA provides online screening tools, resources and information on recovery and support (emotional and financial), and relapse prevention techniques.
MentalHealth.gov
- MentalHealth.gov provides one-stop access to U.S. government mental health and mental health problems information.
- MentalHealth.gov aims to educate and guide the general public, health and emergency preparedness professionals, policy makers, government and business leaders, school systems, and local communities about the basics of mental health, what to look for, how to talk about mental health, and how to get help.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/index.shtml
- The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders.
- The mission of NIMH is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure.
- Their site offers users help for mental disorders, the latest mental health research, statistics, brochures and fact sheets, and opportunities for participation in clinical trials.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
- NAMI provides advocacy, education, support, and public awareness so that all individuals and families affected by mental illness can build better lives.
- NAMI offers information on how to navigate every step of your mental health journey including understanding mental health, insurance and finances, succeeding at work, relationships, and more for individuals with mental illness, caregivers and family members, kids, teens, young adults, veterans and active duty, and other diverse populations.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation and reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.
- SAMHSA provides resources for finding treatment, practitioner training, public messages, data and statistics, and the latest publications and research from the Department of Health and Human Services.
The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA)
- The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders through the alignment of science, treatment, and education.
- The ADAA provides tools on understanding anxiety and depression, how to find help, and brochures and infographics.
The Trevor Project
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
- The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questions (LGBTQ) young people.
- The Trevor Project offers 24/7 crisis counseling, advocacy movements, in-depth research, and TrevorSpace, a safe, affirming, online community to connect LGBTQ youth to each other.
Veteran Mental Health
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
- VA has a variety of mental health resources, information, treatment options, and more — all accessible to Veterans, Veterans’ supporters, and the general public. Resources and tools are available for anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, tobacco use, suicide prevention, and more.
Active Minds
- Active Minds is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting mental health, especially among young adults, via peer-to-peer dialogue and interaction.
Mental Health First-Aid (MHFA)
https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/
- Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants about mental health and substance-use issues.
VeryWell Mind
- Verywell Mind answers your mental health questions in the very moments they matter most to you. Just like your physical health, we understand mental health is a journey, so we intend to be your partner along the way, equipping you with the information necessary to make informed and actionable choices.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free and confidential emotional support service to people in suicidal or emotional distress.
- The Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States.
SPEAK
1-800-273-8255
- SPEAK promotes the prevention of youth suicide and works to dispel the social stigma surrounding suicide and depression through a campaign of education and awareness at the community level.
Suicide Prevention Guide for Youth and Young Adults
https://ceufast.com/blog/suicide-prevention-guide-for-youth-and-young-adults
- This guide includes resources for warning signs of suicide, prevention, statistics, and supporting a survivor of an attempt.
Mary’s Center
202-869-2532 (Intake Team)
844-796-2797 (General)
https://www.maryscenter.org/behavioral-health/adults-and-seniors/therapy/
- You can rely on the qualified team at Mary’s Center for your needs including: individual therapy, family and couples therapy, group therapy, and psychiatry.
- Accepts Medicaid.
Muslim Counseling
http://www.muslimtherapist.com/muslimcounselorsDMV/
- Welcome to the Potomac Muslim Counseling Link. We are a network of mental health professionals in the DC metro area who serve the Muslim population with mental health and social service related needs.
- Please contact each provider directly.
Open Counseling
https://www.opencounseling.com/maryland/westminster
- Results include both sponsored and non-profit providers. We may earn a commission if you choose a sponsored provider (learn more).
- Fees are set by providers and are usually free-to-low-cost based on your income.
Open Path Collective
https://openpathcollective.org/
- Search our expansive network to find Open Path therapists in your area.
- Register and pay a one-time, lifetime membership fee of just $65.
- Schedule with your therapist for $40-70 a session ($30 student intern sessions.)
Pro Bono Counseling MD
5900 Metro Drive, Baltimore, MD 21215
410-825-1001
https://www.probonocounseling.org/
- At Pro Bono Counseling we believe access to quality mental health care is a human right and can change a person’s life. Our goal is to help people of all backgrounds in Maryland find the right mental health professional to meet their needs, no matter their income.
- Call the confidential line and participate in a short phone interview to get connected to a volunteer licensed counselor or other resources.
Bridges to Recovery – Finding Support Groups/Networks
https://www.bridgestorecovery.com/blog/staying-ahead-of-ptsd-finding- support-groups-or-networks/
- To view the recommended online groups/communities/online forums, scroll down to “A Variety of Available Forums”
CPTD Foundation – Safe Virtual Community
https://cptsdfoundation.org/safe-support-groups/
- Has a virtual “Safe Support Group” that exists as a private Facebook group for adults living with Complex PTSD, moderated by CPTD Foundation Staff.
Everyday Health, PTSD-Guide-Resources
https://www.everydayhealth.com/ptsd/guide/resources/
- To view their list of support groups, scroll down to “Best Advocacy and Support Groups for PTSD”. Some of these groups are for military veterans, but not all— there are also other resources/info offered on this site.
Gateway to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Information
- Website containing links to other sites/organizations that provide PTSD support/advocacy (National Center for PTSD, The Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma, Gift from Within, The National Center for Victims of Crime)
Hope Recovery
https://www.hope4-recovery.org/
- Registration site for their Support Groups & Workshops.
- Hope Recovery’s support program offers survivors of abuse and sexual trauma a variety of support groups, workshops, newsletters, and publications to assist, educate and support the journey of healing. Related issues that survivors may experience include PTSD, dissociation, eating disorders, and relapse prevention for addictions.”
Maryland TraumaNet
https://www.maryland-traumanet.com/mental-health-resources/
- Maryland TraumaNet offers a comprehensive list of online support groups and communities for different mental health conditions.
Mental Health America (MHA)
https://www.mhanational.org/find-support-groups
- “Find Support Groups” Tool/Database
- Contains information about national and local specialized support group options (including PTSD), as well as other resources.
National Center for PTSD
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/index.asp
- While this is a resource from the U.S. Dept of Veterans Affairs, it does have resources about PTSD awareness, services, and getting help for all who need support.
PTSD Alliance
http://www.ptsdalliance.org/help/
- Provides list of resources/support links, including directories and tools to find PTSD support groups in your area.
PTSD United
- A health & wellness website with articles, reviews, and information about topics related to PTSD and other health issues—has a free, anonymous online social/support community.
Sidran Institute: Traumatic Stress education & Advocacy
https://www.sidran.org/for-survivors-and-loved-ones/
- Contains helpful resources for survivors and loved ones, among other trauma resources such as articles/fact sheets, info about treatment options, and special topics.
The Dart Center
https://dartcenter.org/topic/ptsd-mental-health
- Contains information in the form of articles, tips, videos, and other tools through their site about coping with traumatic stress, PTSD, and managing mental health.
Trauma Survivors Network – Peer Support Groups
https://www.traumasurvivorsnetwork.org/pages/peer-support-groups
- Contains information about how to join a peer support group and locate one in your area. Also has an online community forum of their own to (as written on website) “link up with other survivors and their families for information, support, and ”
VeryWellMind
https://www.verywellmind.com/best-online-anxiety-support-groups-4692353
- List of “Best Online Anxiety Support Groups