- Behavioral Health, Digestive CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and anxiety may not seem like they’d have anything to do with each other. After all, one affects the gut while the other influences the mind. But new research has found that not only is there a connection, it’s written in our genes. What is the relationship between IBS and anxiety? Researchers have long known that the brain sends signals to the gut. Until recently, though, most scientists flat-out rejected the possibility that it could be a two-way street. Studies in the past decade, however, have shed new light on evidence that the communication does go both ways. And interest in the brain-gut connection is now gaining ground. A study published in late 2021 by the journal Nature Genetics sought to identify genetic risk factors for IBS. What researchers found was proof that IBS and anxiety share certain genetic pathways. That means that the genetic changes that put someone at an increased risk for IBS also put them at an increased risk for certain mental health conditions, like depression, insomnia and anxiety. The findings don’t just highlight the close ties between IBS and anxiety. They also set the stage for the development of new treatments. Taking a closer look at IBS and anxiety IBS is a common condition that affects one in 10 people worldwide. It causes symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating and bowel issues. Factors like diet, stress and behavior can increase a person’s risk. So can difficult early-life events, like physical or sexual abuse and certain mental health disorders. Anxiety may be a normal reaction to stress. It can also develop into a disorder when feelings of dread and unease don’t go away and worsen over time. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, anxiety affects more than 40 million adults in the United States. Symptoms can include a pounding heartbeat, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms can interfere with a person’s daily life. What this news means for you The newfound genetic link between IBS and anxiety shows that anxiety aggravates IBS symptoms. And IBS, in turn, aggravates anxiety symptoms. But one disorder doesn’t cause the other. They simply share a common origin: the same mutated genes that lead to brain or nerve cell changes and symptoms in both the brain and gut. It’s already common practice for doctors to treat a person’s anxiety when working to manage their IBS symptoms. They’ve found success through treatments like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medical hypnotherapy and progressive muscle relaxation, as well as antidepressants. CBT, for example, helps raise awareness of negative thinking so people can respond to challenging situations in a more effective way. In the future, scientists may be able to tailor treatments for IBS and anxiety based on these shared genetic differences. As with everything, though, therapies should be personalized to the individual. If you have IBS, talk to your doctor to see if mental health therapies might help you better manage your symptoms. Authors Showkat Bashir, MD, specializes in gastroenterology at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.0
- Behavioral Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogAs a parent of four, I understand how stressful it can be to carry that title. Being a parent means carrying a world of responsibilities. We have to watch out for all sorts of external triggers – think peer pressure, social media and school shootings – to help our children navigate through this world as best as possible. And we’re also needed to help them through their various developmental stages. One of those stages is puberty and all the mood swings that come with it. If you’re a parent, you’ve probably experienced the eye-rolling, the snappy response out of nowhere, and the need to ask the same question multiple times before something gets done (asking them to look up from their phone during dinner!). Sometimes those behaviors are normal, it’s your child navigating new emotions and developmental changes. But sometimes, it’s a result of something more than just puberty or “kids being kids.” I have been working in the mental health field for the past 30 years and a lot has changed. What used to be a slight increase in mental health problems reported over the years has turned into an ever-increasing peak. But why? Think about everything that society has dumped on kids nowadays: Anxiety based on school safety, higher expectations, challenging curriculums and, of course, there’s social media. This is a lot of “weight” for a child to carry. How do you know what’s normal and what’s not? Here are a few warning signs that can help you tell if your child needs another layer of support and/or professional help: Elementary Age Change in behavior or change in play (hitting, bullying, biting). Intensity of emotions (anger or fear). Increased physical complaints. Change in sleep patterns (nightmares). Difficulty concentrating. Middle School Age Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger. Difficulty relating to peers. Thinking and/or talking about suicide. Avoidance of friends and social activities. Confused thinking or problems concentrating. High School Age Excessive worry or fear. Feeling excessively sad or low. Extreme mood changes. Abuse of substances (alcohol and drugs). Thinking and/or talking about suicide. The best thing you can do as a parent is provide a safe, nurturing home and community with realistic limits on social media and screen time. Give them a sense of stability and a true balance of exercise, activities, nutrition, family meals and something I call the “gift of time” for optimal emotional health. The gift of time is listening without interruption and giving one’s full attention if even for 15-30 minutes a day. Take the time to listen – really listen – to your child without interruption and judgement. Encourage them, foster their independence and above all, love them unconditionally! Providing stability among our world’s instability is one of the most critical components to supporting our children and teenagers. Ask questions, find resources and learn more at askAAMC.org/HealthyMinds. Author Cindy Radovic, MA, BA, BSN Board Certified, is the manager of Mental Health Services at Anne Arundel Medical Center’s (AAMC) Emergency Department. To schedule an appointment with her, call 443-481-3519.0
- Behavioral Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogFor a lot of us, the pandemic has taken its toll on our mental health and wellbeing. That’s especially true for teenagers. At Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, we have seen an increase in mental health visits to the pediatric emergency room. That’s why we have created a new space for young patients to relax and chill out. Over the past few months, a planning team has transformed the hospital’s old playroom into a Zen Den, an area specifically designed to meet the mental health needs of teens. “Before a teen is admitted, there is a fair amount of wait time anxiety,” said Melanie Lee, clinical nursing director of Pediatrics for Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. “The Zen Den is a safe and supportive space that came at just the right time. During this pandemic, we saw an increase in teenagers needing mental health services.” The moment you walk in the room, you are surrounded by peace and calm – the lighting is dim, the walls are painted blue, and soft music is playing in the background. Teens can relax in a beanbag chair, write their feelings on a white board, or enjoy the Vector Jr. sensory station, complete with a bubble and jellyfish tower. “You feel like you are not in the hospital,” said Meghan Siegel, a certified child-life specialist at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center, “and it’s already making a difference. Patients are relieved, peaceful, and less stressed. It’s really a simple space.” The Zen Den was made possible thanks to donations from the community. When Rob Rex died in November 2020, his family asked loved ones and friends to donate money for a new playroom at the hospital. Nearly $14,000 were raised through the Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center Foundation, which helped create this innovative addition to the Pediatric Emergency Unit. “We are happy to be able to give back to the community that has been so incredibly supportive of us,” said Jenn Rex. “There is not much more important than the mental health of our children and we are proud to have the Zen Den named in my husband’s memory and as a lasting reminder of the impact his life had on so many. Rob was the most positive person I have ever known and we look forward to doing as many positive things as we can in his honor.”0
- Behavioral HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogButterflies in the stomach. Sweaty palms. A racing heartbeat. A shaky voice. These are just a few well-documented cases of how stress or anxiety (aka your mental health) can bring on real physical symptoms. After all, we’ve all experienced these kinds of nerves before a big presentation or an important date. But what happens to the body when these “nerves” turn into longer bouts of anxiety and depression? The short answer: It can have a serious impact on your health. And what if you struggle with a chronic illness, like diabetes, high blood pressure, or even cancer? That can impact your mental health. The good news — understanding this mind-body connection can help you take charge of your whole health — mental, physical and emotional. Even better, there are steps you can take to reduce your stress and improve your health. Let’s dive in. How Mental and Physical Health Influence Each Other Researchers have been studying the connection between mental and physical health for years. They’ve asked the big questions, like “How does our mental health affect our health?” and “Does a chronic condition put you at higher risk of a mental illness?” Here are just a Few Interesting Findings: Depression may cause a wide range of physical symptoms and health conditions, including memory trouble, an increased risk of heart attack and heart disease, and weight gain and loss. Anxiety can bring physical symptoms like dizziness and sweating and also lead to long-term health issues, such as gastrointestinal trouble, high blood pressure, eczema and other skin conditions. Mental health can also impact the immune system. Researchers found that individuals who express prolonged periods of stress may have a weaker immune system, ultimately making it easier to come down with illnesses like the common cold or strep throat. Individuals with chronic conditions are also at higher risk of developing depression or anxiety, according to research from the National Institute of Mental Health. Boost your Mental and Physical Health When it comes to staying mentally and physically strong, it comes down to the basics. Most of these tips won’t surprise you, but they are great ways to keep your body in tiptop shape and your mind (and emotions) feeling sharp. Get moving. Exercise has countless physical and mental health benefits. A quick 30-minute walk (or even less) around the neighborhood can help strengthen your heart, lungs and muscles; and boost your mood with a rush of “feel-good” chemicals like endorphins. Rest up. A good night’s sleep connects to a stronger immune system and reduced stress — among many other benefits. Adults should aim for seven or more hours of sleep. Focus on friendships. Your social health is an important part of your physical and mental health. Spending time with friends and loved ones can influence health behaviors and even mortality risk. What better excuse to call up a friend and meet them for a cup of coffee or (even better) a walk around a nearby park? Eat right. Sure, it can be tempting to reach for that delicious (but not-so-nutritious) snack of potato chips or candy bar. But, noshing on some fresh fruit and veggies will help your body and brain feel stronger than ever. Vitamins and minerals, like B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and probiotics, may help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety and support important body functions like the immune system, brain function and bone strength. Ask for Help When You Need it It can be hard to admit you’re struggling with your mental health. Just remember, you are not alone. The National Alliance on Mental Health Institute (NAMI) estimates that 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experience mental illness. Another organization (Mental Health America) found that more than of adults living with mental illness, including anxiety or depression, don’t seek treatment. There’s no shame in getting help to better manage your mood, emotions and mental health. There are proven approaches to help you cope with feelings of anxiety, depression and fear, including therapy, medication and more. If you’ve been struggling with your mental or physical health — or both — your primary care doctor or a mental health professional can help. Schedule an appointment and, together, find ways to improve your overall health and wellness so you can feel your best. Authors Eshe Montague is the director of our behavioral health program at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.0
- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogLuminis Heath Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC), a non-profit community-based hospital in Prince George’s County for almost half a century, joins a premier group of organizations that have received Pathway to Excellence® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The Pathway designation is a global credential that highlights LHDCMC’s commitment to creating a healthy work environment where nurses feel empowered and valued. Luminis Health’s nurses are an integral part of the healthcare team, with a voice in policy and practice. Pathway nurses are engaged, resulting in higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, improved safety, and better patient outcomes. As a Pathway organization, LHDCMC leads the effort to enhance quality of care, patient and nursing safety, and the future of healthcare delivery. “Our Pathway to Excellence journey reflects how our nurses’ commitment to excellence is shaping our workplace,” said Crystal Beckford, Chief Nursing Officer at LHDCMC. “Built on years of hard work and dedication, this recognition highlights our focus on shared decision-making, quality care, and professional development, all of which lead to improved patient outcomes.” “We are incredibly proud of this recognition from the ANCC because it highlights our commitment to creating an exceptional work environment for our nurses,” said Deneen Richmond, president of LHDCMC. “As we approach our 50th anniversary next year, we remain steadfast in delivering high-quality care close to home. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.” This distinction comes on the heels of LHDCMC being recognized as a high-performing hospital by U.S. News & World Report and by the American Heart Association for excellence in treating diabetes.0
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