Mental Health: Lack of Awareness of Accessibility of Resources & Stigma
Share Your Story: Strengthen Our Community Through Sharing Your Mental Health Journey
1 in 5 Frederick County residents reported experiencing at least 7 days with strained/poor/negative mental health in the last month. When asked, many residents noted shame, embarrassment, or cultural stigma as major barriers to accessing support for their mental health.
When we talk openly about our mental health journey, we can remind our friends and neighbors that they are not alone! Mental health is health, no matter your identity, and we believe that an important step toward true health equity in our community is to tear down the negative stigma that keeps community members isolated.
This project seeks to demystify mental health challenges and showcase the wealth of resources and supports available in Frederick County.
Men’s Mental Health Initiative
Between April 21 – June 30, 2025, the Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County’s 2022-2025 Mental Health Workgroup launched the “You Good?” Men’s Mental Health Survey to better understand the experiences of local men when it comes to their mental health and well-being. The survey was made available in both English and Spanish.
Outreach efforts were wide-ranging, including social media promotion, community newsletters, partner networks, and community events. A total of 117 men participated, with responses representing both Frederick County and a few other areas.
The 2025-2028 Mental Health Workgroup is actively continuing the men’s mental health initiative through efforts like the Beyond the Stigma Mental Health Seminar, the “You Good?” men’s mental health social media campaign, and more. Stay tuned!
View the survey results presentation and read the survey narrative to learn more.
“You Good?” Social Media Toolkit
Healthier Frederick recognizes that mental health is health and every man deserves the space, support, and tools to take care of his well-being.
We encourage you to explore and share the "You Good?” social media toolkit to help spread this message and spark conversations.
Promoting Mental Wellbeing through Access, Awareness and Strengthening Support Systems
Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, yet many people face obstacles when it comes to finding support, understanding resources, or seeking help without fear of judgement. Promoting mental well-being means making sure people not only have access to care, but also the awareness and supportive environments needed to feel seen, heard, and empowered to prioritize their mental health.
The Mental Health Workgroup is committed to building a community where mental health is openly discussed, understood, and prioritized. We recognize that stigma and limited awareness of available resources often create barriers to care. That’s why we focus on expanding knowledge of local resources, increasing visibility of support systems, and creating a culture of empathy.
Meeting Schedule: 4th Tuesday each month from 1:00 - 2:30pm via Zoom
What are the impacts of lack of awareness of mental health resources and the impact of stigma?
38% of residents report that mental health or counseling services are the most difficult healthcare services to get in Frederick County (CHNA Survey Report, 2024). 33% of residents shared that they have felt that an aspect of their identity affected how they were treated by a doctor or medical staff (CHNA Survey and Focus Groups Report, 2024).
Those who may need healthcare the most, such as those with poor/fair health or those who experienced poor mental health more than a week out of the past month, are less likely to have seen a doctor within the last year compared to healthier residents (CHNA Survey Report, 2024).
What’s the good news?
There are many mental health resources available right here in our community! As awareness grows, stigma starts to break down, making it easier for people to talk about their mental health and reach out for support without fear or shame.
What can we do about improving access and
the stigma surrounding mental health?
Decrease Risk Factors:
Lack of awareness of resources
Cost, transportation, and language access
Stigma and cultural shame
Social isolation or lack of community support
Increase Protective Factors:
Trusted messengers sharing resource information
Safe and supportive school, work, and community settings
Inclusive, culturally competent care environments
Strong social and family support networks
Learn More
Logic Model
Meeting Minutes
Workgroup Leadership
Brooke DeSantis
Workgroup Lead
Love for Lochlin Foundation Inc., Founder & Director
Sharon MacDougall
Leadership Team
Community Mental Health Advocate
Catherine DiGennaro
Leadership Team
Community Mental Health Advocate
Christian N. Isanogle, MS, NCC, LCPC
Leadership Team
The Ranch, Professional Counselor
Jason Barth
Leadership Team
The Ranch, Executive Director
Frank Sainfort
Leadership Team
Asian American Center of Frederick, Project Lead
Kathleen Siedor
Leadership Team
Community Mental Health Advocate
Staff Representative Coordinators
Malcolm Furgol
Executive Director
Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County
Marci Corea
Workgroup Coordinator
Coalition for a Healthier Frederick County
Mental Health Workgroup Members
Join A Workgroup
Are you passionate about making a difference in Frederick County? Join one of our dedicated Workgroups to collaborate with like-minded individuals and drive meaningful change! If you’re interested in getting involved, please complete the form below and someone will be in touch.