Maryland Mental Health Statistics

Maryland faces a complex mental health landscape characterized by both significant challenges and proactive policy innovations. While the state has made progress in system reform, residents continue to grapple with rising prevalence rates for conditions like anxiety and depression, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, Maryland ranks 12th in the nation for mental health systems according to Mental Health America^[9], and was placed 5th for mental health innovation in 2023^[10]. These statistics underscore a commitment to improving care, yet persistent disparities in access and outcomes across different demographic and geographic groups remain a critical area of focus.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly intensified mental health challenges across Maryland, causing a sharp increase in reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. While rates have begun to decline from their peak, they remain elevated above pre-pandemic levels. This trend highlights the long-lasting impact of the pandemic on the population's well-being and the sustained demand for mental health services. The following chart illustrates the trajectory of self-reported mental health challenges among adults before, during, and after the initial pandemic surge.

Beyond general mental health challenges, specific disorders affect Marylanders at notable rates. Conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) represent significant public health concerns. Understanding the prevalence of these specific conditions is crucial for allocating resources, developing targeted interventions, and raising public awareness. The data below provides a snapshot of how these disorders impact various segments of the state's population.

Mental health conditions do not affect all Marylanders equally. Significant disparities exist based on gender, age, race, and other demographic factors. For instance, women report higher rates of anxiety and depression, while men face alarmingly higher rates of death by suicide. Understanding these differences is essential for creating equitable health policies and culturally competent care that addresses the unique needs of each community. The following data highlights some of the most pronounced disparities in the state.

Racial and ethnic minorities in Maryland face distinct challenges related to mental health, including higher prevalence rates for certain conditions and significant barriers to accessing care. Systemic factors such as stigma, lack of culturally competent providers, and higher uninsured rates contribute to these disparities. For example, only 30% of mental health professionals in the state identify as belonging to minority groups^[16]. The following table breaks down the prevalence of mental illness and treatment access rates across different racial and ethnic groups, revealing where the needs are greatest.

Certain groups, such as veterans, college students, and older adults, face unique stressors and mental health challenges. Maryland's veteran population of approximately 440,000^[17] contends with high rates of PTSD and depression. College students experience intense academic and social pressures, while older adults may struggle with isolation, grief, and age-related health issues. Tailoring support systems to these populations is a key aspect of a comprehensive public health strategy.

Access to timely and effective mental healthcare remains a critical issue in Maryland. While the state performs relatively well in some national rankings, significant barriers persist, including long wait times, provider shortages, and geographic disparities. The average wait time for a first mental health appointment was 21 days in 2023^[21]. The divide between rural and urban areas is particularly stark, affecting everything from travel time to the availability of specialized services.

The expansion of telehealth has been a critical development in improving access to care, especially for underserved populations. Following a massive surge in use during the pandemic, Maryland has taken legislative steps to make these changes permanent. Policies like the Preserve Telehealth Access Act of 2025^[24] aim to solidify telehealth's role in the state's healthcare system. However, challenges such as insurance claim denials and out-of-network care limitations continue to impact both patients and providers.

The economic consequences of mental illness in Maryland are substantial, affecting individuals, families, employers, and the state budget. These costs include direct expenses for treatment and indirect costs from lost productivity, disability claims, and increased reliance on social services. State mental health spending has grown to address these needs, with the budget expanding from $1.0 billion in FY2020 to an estimated $1.4 billion by FY2025^[28]. However, investing in mental healthcare can yield significant returns by reducing these broader economic burdens.

Suicide is a serious public health issue in Maryland, with rates that slightly exceed the national average. In 2021, the state's age-adjusted suicide death rate was 14.3 per 100,000 people^[2]. Firearms are involved in 45% of all suicide deaths in the state^[31]. In response, Maryland has invested in crisis intervention systems, including the integration of the national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which saw its call volume increase by nearly 33% between 2020 and 2025^[5].