Montgomery County to Host Free Forum on Mental Health and Substance Use Communication on Saturday, May 17 at Montgomery College’s East County Education Center

For Immediate Release: Thursday, April 17, 2025

Montgomery County’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) will host a free forum, “Effective Communication Strategies for Substance Use and Mental Health,” from 8:30 a.m.-noon on Saturday, May 17 in Silver Spring. The event is open to the public and will offer practical tools to help individuals and families navigate conversations around mental health and substance use, connect with local resources and support loved ones through prevention, crisis and recovery.

The annual forum, designed for youth and adults, will take place at Montgomery College’s East County Education Center, located at 2221 Broadbirch Drive in Silver Spring.

“Talking about mental health and substance use isn’t always easy, but it’s important,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “When people know how to have those conversations and where to find help, they can better support themselves and others. I encourage everyone to join this event and be part of a healthier, more connected Montgomery County.”

The forum sessions will consist of several breakout sessions starting at 9 a.m. Topics include:

• Narcan training and distribution.
• Accessing mental health and substance use resources.
• Using the 988 Crisis Line and connecting with Substance Use Care Navigators.
• Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships.

A resource fair featuring local mental health and substance use-related organizations will be open throughout the event, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Students may earn up to 3.5 Student Service Learning hours for attending the entire event. A parent or guardian consent form, along with student ID, grade and school name, is required for verification.

The forum is hosted by the DHHS’ Alcohol and Other Drug Addiction Advisory Council, Mental Health Advisory Council and Montgomery County Youth Ambassadors.

A light breakfast will be available, and advance registration is highly recommended. Visit the 2025 Spring Forum website to register.

To request accessibility accommodations, including interpretation in American Sign Language, Spanish, Chinese, Amharic or other languages, contact Diane Lininger via email by May 5.

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Release ID: 25-168
Media Contact: Jennifer Garfinkel 240-962-1506
Categories: Consumer, Education, Health