Brook Lane

Imagine being the calm voice when a friend faces overwhelming anxiety, the steady hand guiding a loved one through depression, or the resourceful support for someone struggling with addiction. As a Certified Adult Mental Health First Aider, you'll be ready for these moments. Our 8-hour course will equip you with the skills to respond to mental health crises, from psychosis to everyday stress, using a 5-step action plan. The next Adult Mental Health First Aid course is right around the corner on September 11th. Don’t miss out—register by September 3, 2024, and be the difference when it matters most. 💙 Register here: https://lnkd.in/dcQ9SqBX #CertifiedMentalHealthFirstAider #BeTheDifference #SupportEachOther #BrookLane

Alongside many community partners, we are excited to support Washington Goes Purple (WGP) as we enter National Alcohol & Drug Recovery Month in September. WGP is a substance misuse education movement aiming to engage our community and youth to prevent addiction and eliminate stigma. There are a variety of ways to get involved this year, starting with a night out at a Flying Boxcars game tomorrow, August 28th! For more WGP information: https://ow.ly/B6vL50T33oK

Join our dedicated team at Brook Lane as a Mental Health Associate and make a difference in the lives of those experiencing mental health challenges. We're hiring for full-time and part-time positions in our Inpatient Hospital in Hagerstown, MD—apply today to be a part of a compassionate and skilled treatment team! For more information, visit: https://ow.ly/BWve50T2sAi #MentalHealth #HealthcareCareers #HagerstownMD

Then: This 1958 photo shows Brook Lane nurses posing on the old Sports Bridge, taken during a period of significant growth. Just two years after opening, Brook Lane Farm saw a surge in patient numbers that exceeded bed capacity. To meet the demand, the Westview hospital wing was constructed, expanding capacity to 38 beds by the time this photo was taken. Now: This 2024 photo features a few of our dedicated inpatient nurses on today's bridge, recreating the 1958 moment between their shifts. Brook Lane now has over 70 nurses who provide care across various departments, including Inpatient Adult, Inpatient Child and Adolescent, Laurel Hall Schools, Outpatient, Partial Hospitalization, and the Residential Program. We are deeply grateful for the compassion and dedication of our nurses throughout the years! #BrookLaneThenAndNow #75Years #HopeHealingRecovery

As kids return to school, their mental health becomes a crucial focus for ensuring a smooth and successful transition. Here are five effective ways to support their well-being during this time: 1. Establish a Routine: Routines provide a sense of security and predictability for children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, consistent daily routines can help reduce anxiety and improve overall mental well-being. 2. Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for kids to express their feelings. Studies show that children who feel heard are more likely to develop healthy coping strategies and resilience. 3. Promote Physical Activity: Physical exercise is linked to improved mood and reduced anxiety. The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily for children, which can help them manage stress and stay focused. 4. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health. The American Psychological Association suggests setting boundaries on screen use to ensure children engage in more face-to-face interactions and physical activities. 5. Teach Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing and mindfulness can help kids manage stress. Research from Harvard Medical School indicates that mindfulness can improve attention, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional regulation. These strategies can help create a supportive environment for children, promoting their mental health and overall well-being as they transition back to school. You can support the teachers and staff at our Laurel Hall Schools by donating new, unused items for the school year. Please visit https://lnkd.in/edjUeFXh for a full list of items that you are able to donate.

Distressing levels of anxiety can happen to anyone, at any time. If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to—at any hour, day or night—the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is there for you. #988Lifeline #MentalHealthAwareness #Anxiety

The summer edition of our e-newsletter is here! 🌞 A look inside: 🏖️ Brook Lane and Meritus Health affiliate to enhance mental health care across the region 🏖️ You're invited to our 75th Anniversary Fall Festival—RSVP today! 🏖️ Brook Lane named one of the most beautiful hospitals in the U.S. 🏖️ Exciting renovations at the Orchard Wing and new pickleball courts at Brook Lane …and much more! Don’t miss these stories and upcoming events by checking out the full e-newsletter, here: https://ow.ly/9o4Z50SZI0m

We loved seeing our outpatient lobby bustling with Washington County Chamber of Commerce members during last night’s B.A.S.H.! It was a wonderful networking event, filled with local professionals sharing insights about their businesses and organizations. Hosting and showcasing our beautiful campus to the community provided a great opportunity to talk about our efforts in enhancing access to care and improving the patient experience through recent program initiatives as well as affiliation with Meritus Health. A big thank you to Bulls and Bears for their exceptional service and delicious food, and to Conor Doherty, for adding cheer to the event!

Join our team as a teacher at Brook Lane's Laurel Hall School and make a meaningful impact on students in a supportive, therapeutic environment. We offer competitive benefits and the opportunity to help youth thrive, both academically and personally. For more details, visit our Career Center: https://ow.ly/bzHg50SWmPw

While the sun brings warmth and the opportunity for outdoor fun this summer, it is important to keep in mind several health risks associated with extended sun exposure. Understanding and practicing summer sun safety is crucial for several reasons: ☀️Preventing Skin Cancer: Prolonged exposure to UV rays significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing can greatly reduce this risk. ☀️Avoiding Heat-Related Illnesses: High temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, which are potentially life-threatening conditions. Staying hydrated, taking breaks in cool areas, and avoiding strenuous activities during peak sun hours are essential preventive measures. ☀️Boosting Mental Well-being: Excessive sun exposure and heat can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Overheating and dehydration can lead to irritability and cognitive difficulties, impacting overall mental health. Practicing sun safety helps maintain a stable, comfortable environment, supporting better mental well-being. Stay safe, stay cool, and safeguard your future—start implementing these tips today!