In the heart of Caroline County, a gathering of community leaders and health advocates illuminated the pressing issues surrounding mental health and substance use during the Caroline County Commissioners Meeting on May 13, 2025. The atmosphere buzzed with purpose as Katie Dilley, CEO of Midshore Behavioral Health, and Anne Simpers, the organization’s behavioral health coordinator, presented their annual update, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Month.

Dilley and Simpers introduced a new presentation format, utilizing PowerPoint to enhance their communication. They emphasized the significance of May, a month dedicated to raising awareness about mental health, particularly highlighting Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Their message was clear: mental health is a year-round concern, and Midshore Behavioral Health is committed to serving the community's needs.

The duo outlined the organization’s extensive work, including its role as a core service agency for Caroline County. They reported on the Midshore Planning Collaborative, a partnership that has been active since fiscal year 2021, which aims to address the spectrum of mental health and substance use needs across the region. This collaborative effort has led to the development of various work groups focusing on issues such as homelessness, autism, and diversity and inclusion.

One of the standout initiatives discussed was the Bay Bridge partnership, a coalition aimed at suicide prevention in a region known for its tragic incidents. Dilley highlighted the importance of community response services, particularly in areas identified as high-risk for suicide. The organization has also been proactive in distributing gun locks to enhance safety and prevent tragedies.

Simpers took the stage to share Caroline County-specific initiatives, including the successful launch of the Safe Station program, which has been instrumental in providing resources for first responders. She noted the establishment of an intensive outpatient substance use program, Project Chesapeake, which began operations in March 2025, addressing a critical need in the community.

The meeting also touched on the ongoing efforts to support individuals transitioning from state hospital systems to community-based settings, with 35 individuals successfully placed in the past year. The statistics shared were sobering: Midshore Behavioral Health served over 2,300 residents for mental health issues and nearly 1,000 for substance use in Caroline County alone.

As the meeting drew to a close, the focus shifted to future initiatives, including the Crisis Intercept Mapping initiative aimed at supporting veterans in crisis. This statewide effort seeks to enhance the availability of services tailored to veterans and their families.

The discussions at the Caroline County Commissioners Meeting underscored a collective commitment to addressing mental health and substance use challenges in the community. With ongoing advocacy and innovative programs, Midshore Behavioral Health continues to play a pivotal role in fostering a healthier, more supportive environment for all residents. As the community reflects on these initiatives, the hope is that awareness and action will lead to lasting change.