Behavioral Health Action Team
The Behavioral Health Action Team (BHAT) of the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership is dedicated to improving behavioral health outcomes in St. Mary’s County, including those related to mental health and substance abuse prevention and control. Mental health and physical health are closely linked. Mental health status influences a person’s ability to maintain good physical health. Illnesses such as depression and anxiety may affect people’s ability to participate in health-promoting behaviors. Conversely, problems with physical health, such as chronic diseases, may impact mental health and decrease a person’s ability to participate in treatment and recovery. A variety of organizations and individuals are working together to collaboratively implement evidence-based strategies that will improve behavioral health for all St. Mary’s County residents.
Get involved – New members are always welcome to join the Behavioral Health action team! To be notified of upcoming events and meetings, please sign up for membership in the Healthy St. Mary’s Partnership and indicate “Behavioral Health” as your interest!
Example Objectives and Indicators
While numerous behavioral health issues are being addressed in the Healthy St. Mary’s 2026 Plan, two objectives with associated indicators are presented here:
- Mental health problems can place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Reducing the rate of inpatient visits due to mental health conditions (Figure 1) and emergency department visits related to addiction related conditions (Figure 2) will be indicators of successful implementation of many of the team’s evidence-based strategies to support those with behavioral health needs.
Figure 1. Rate of Inpatient Visits for Mental Health Conditions
Figure 2. Rate of Emergency Department Visits for Addictions Related Conditions
