Kate Stewart

Mental Health Initiative

A Community Where Mental Health Thrives: Council President Kate Stewart's Commitment to Whole-Person Wellbeing

Mental health isn't just part of our community's wellbeing, it's the foundation of every family's story, including my own. As Council President, I made this truth our priority because supporting mental health doesn't just heal individuals, it strengthens Montgomery County's very fabric. During fiscal year 2026 budget deliberations, I worked with colleagues to approve a $4.9 million budget increase for our County’s Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health and Crisis Services to advance this work. I will continue being a strong voice on the Council so that, together, we can achieve our goals and build a community where no one struggles alone.

Why This Matters

Our groundbreaking Mental Health Convening in February marked a turning point, as it brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—many for the first time—under one roof to engage in collaborative conversations, focused on the populations they serve, the services they provide, and the challenges they face. 

Our Vision for Mental Health and Wellness

There is no universal solution and a one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work. Investing in mental health is not just about treating illness but about promoting an equity-focused holistic approach to well-being, enabling individuals to thrive emotionally, socially and physically. With your support, we will work towards:

• Breaking down silos through stakeholder collaboration
• Eliminating the stigma around mental health access
• Showcasing local providers making change possible
• Identifying service gaps through data analysis by the Office of Legislative Oversight
• Sharing multilingual resources via our "Mental Health Corner" newsletter

The Road Ahead

Working together we can reduce the stigma, address issues before they escalate, and create healthier, more supportive communities. Our mental health providers form the backbone of community wellbeing. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion make a profound difference in the lives of so many. To our residents: we want you to feel seen, supported and empowered. I remain your committed ally on the Council, so I hope you will join me as we set out to accomplish this work.

Get Involved

Explore the different resources on this page or contact my office to get involved via e-mail [email protected] or by calling 240-777-7968. Together, we're redefining what a mentally healthy community can be.