- News & Press ReleasesGeneral Page Tier 3BlogHealth System will partner with Prince George’s County Public Schools to Offer Services and Training at High Schools (Lanham, Maryland) February 20, 2024- In response to the increasing demand for mental health services among young people, Luminis Health has been awarded a $1.6 million grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission. The non-profit regional health system will collaborate with Prince George’s County Public Schools by implementing comprehensive support services at six high schools. As part of the grant, Luminis Health will hire and deploy mental health providers directly to the schools, collaborating with school counselors to offer vital support to students and parents. These embedded providers will rotate through the schools, providing education and training to students, parents, and teachers, ensuring access to evidence-based screening tools for identifying individual needs and strengths on an ongoing basis. “Our mental health matters, and today’s teenagers are grappling with a mental health crisis of unprecedented proportions,” said Dr. Aliya Jones, executive medical director of Behavioral Health at Luminis Health. “By partnering with school counselors, teachers, parents and students, we can build strong bonds and connect with teenagers, fostering an environment of support for their mental health well-being and facilitating their growth.” In addition to placing mental health providers with expertise in adolescents within the schools, Luminis Health plans to implement a multifaceted approach to support students’ mental well-being. This includes training teachers to recognize warning signs of mental health issues and equipping them with the tools to provide appropriate support and referrals. Furthermore, students themselves will receive training on how to identify signs of distress in their classmates and provide effective peer support. Luminis Health has forged a strategic partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools to ensure equitable access to care where it’s needed most. Through close collaboration with administrators, six high schools have been identified as priority locations for this initiative: Parkdale High School in Riverdale Park DuVal High School in Lanham Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt Northwestern High School in Hyattsville Bowie High School in Bowie Chesapeake Math and IT Academy North High School in Laurel Over the next few months, Luminis Health will recruit team members to support the services funded by the grant, including clinicians, therapists, addiction counselors, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses. The health system will begin working directly with school personnel in June, with plans to roll out the comprehensive services for students in the upcoming school year. “Over the past 4 years, Luminis Health has invested $110 million at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center (LHDCMC) in Lanham, including opening a new Behavioral Health Pavilion to provide comprehensive mental health services,” said Tori Bayless, CEO of Luminis Health. “We extend our sincere appreciation to the State and County for their support in advancing our mission of enhancing the health of people we serve. These communities will benefit directly from this grant by expanding mental health options in Prince George’s County and enhancing accessibility by bringing programs directly into our schools.” The grant will additionally cover extended hours at the Behavioral Health Urgent Care walk-in clinic at LHDCMC, offering treatment for non-life-threatening mental health needs for individuals of all ages. The Maryland Community Health Resources Commission approved 129 grant awards totaling $111 million to expand access to comprehensive behavioral use services for children, kindergarten through high school, in every jurisdiction in Maryland. Funding to support these new programs was made available by the Maryland General Assembly under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.
- Behavioral HealthGeneral Page Tier 3BlogWhen someone is experiencing depression, anxiety or substance misuse, it doesn’t just impact them – it impacts their family and their community. We all can do our part to watch for signs of mental health struggles in family and friends. But how do you know when you or a loved one is in a mental health crisis and needs to see a professional? Let’s take a look at the signs and symptoms that can indicate a need for treatment. Here are a few symptoms that indicate depression and substance use: Persistent sadness: A prolonged period of feeling sad, empty or hopeless. Loss of interest: Diminished interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities. Change in sleep patterns: Insomnia or lack of energy. Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. Difficulty concentrating: Reduced ability to focus, make decisions, or remember details. Appetite changes: Significant weight loss or gain due to changes in eating habits. Irritability: Unexplained mood swings, increased irritability, or restlessness. Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social activities. When it comes to substance abuse, there are several signs that indicate a person needs help: Changes in behavior: Sudden and unexplained shifts in personality or actions. Neglecting responsibilities: Failing to fulfill work, school, or family obligations. Social withdrawal: Isolating from friends and family, preferring to be alone. Tolerance buildup: Needing more of the substance over time to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal symptoms: Physical and psychological reactions when substance use is reduced or stopped. Loss of control: Inability to cut down or control substance use. Continued use despite consequences: Continued substance use despite negative impact on health, relationships, or job. Secrecy with use: Hiding substance use and being dishonest about its extent. Financial issues: Experiencing money problems due to spending on substances. Legal problems: Getting into trouble with the law related to substance use. It’s important to understand that each person’s experience is different, and you may not experience or see every symptom on these lists. But if you read these lists and think it sounds like something you or a friend or family member are going through, it could be a mental health crisis so please contact a behavioral health professional. A provider can give an accurate diagnosis and provide guidance on treatment options. At Luminis Health, we offer a wide range of mental health services, including: Behavioral Health Walk-In Urgent Care – for moderate to severe psychiatric symptoms that need to be addressed in less than 24-72 hours Outpatient Treatment for Mental Health or Substance Use – For those who are able to wait for a scheduled appointment. Telehealth options are available. Inpatient Treatment for Mental Health or Substance Use – For those who need 24 hour treatment Please visit https://Luminis.Health/BehavioralHealth to schedule care.
- Behavioral Health, PediatricsGeneral Page Tier 3BlogIt won’t be long before your kids are back to school, and while you’re making sure they have new clothes and all the supplies they need, be sure to take stock of their mental health. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one out of every six students ages 6 to 17 has a treatable mental health issue such as anxiety or depression. Like with physical health issues, early identification and intervention can help prevent mental health issues from affecting your child’s academic performance and personal development. What causes mental health issues in children? Various factors contribute to mental health issues among students, including: Academic pressure: High grades, tests, and college admissions can create anxiety and chronic stress, impacting emotional health. Some levels of stress are normal, but chronic stress can lead to burnout and emotional distress. Encourage your children to take a balanced approach to schoolwork. Social dynamics: Positive peer interactions boost self-esteem, while bullying can lead to severe consequences like anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Promote healthy relationships for your child and take immediate action if bullying is suspected. Technology: Excessive screen time, especially on social media, can foster loneliness and cyberbullying, necessitating healthy digital habits. Monitoring online activities can help mitigate these risks. Home environment: Supportive families build resilience, while stress or conflict can magnify mental health issues. Overscheduling: Encourage free time for rest and creativity to prevent overscheduling, allowing your kids the space to rejuvenate and explore their creativity without constraint. Developmental changes Each academic phase presents unique challenges: Elementary school (kindergarten to grade 5). Younger children may experience separation anxiety, difficulty with social skills, and adapting to structured environments. Middle school (grades 6 to 8). Pre-teens face the pressures of puberty, identity formation, and increased academic demands. Social acceptance becomes more important to them, and bullying or peer pressure can significantly affect their mental health. High school (grades 9 to 12). Teenagers deal with the complexities of preparing for adulthood, including higher academic expectations, romantic relationships, and career planning. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety often emerge during these years. Mental health resources Schools can’t do it alone. Luminis Health recently received a grant from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission to partner with Prince George’s County Public Schools to implement comprehensive support services at six high schools. Beginning with the 2024-25 school year, Luminis Health is deploying mental health providers directly to the schools, collaborating with school counselors to offer vital support to students and parents. These embedded providers will rotate through the schools, providing education and training to students, parents, and teachers, ensuring access to evidence-based screening tools for identifying individual needs and strengths on an ongoing basis. Support Strategies Here’s how to bolster your child’s mental health: Regular check-ins. Talk regularly with your child about their feelings and experiences. Creating a safe space for those discussions can help you identify issues early. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Help your child explore the benefits of mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques as ways to not manage stress and anxiety, but also to foster a deeper spiritual connection within themselves. Physical activity. Regular physical activity, such as sports, yoga, or even walks, can help improve your child’s mood and reduce stress. A healthy lifestyle. Make sure your child eats a balanced diet and gets enough sleep. Limiting their screen time can have a positive impact on mental health. Professional support. Do not hesitate to get professional help when needed. Mental health is a fundamental aspect of a student's overall well-being. Understanding the challenges K-12 students may face daily and implementing supportive strategies can help ensure they have the resources and resilience to succeed academically and personally. If you, or your children, need mental health support, the Luminis Health Behavioral Health Urgent Walk-In Clinic in Lanham is available for anyone ages 4 and older. It is open Monday-Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm for non-life threatening behavioral health needs. No appointment is necessary. Authors Joy Hudson is the clinical director of Behavioral Health at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center.
- Wellness, Weight LossGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe holidays are a magical time, but let’s be honest — they can also put a serious dent in your wallet, especially when it comes to food. Between parties, family gatherings and pumpkin spice everything, it’s easy to feel like you’re overspending. But you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or tradition to stick to a budget. With a little planning and a few smart swaps, you can enjoy all your holiday favorites without the financial stress. 1. Shop SmartUse store apps to stay on top of holiday discounts and deals. Focus on buying more whole foods and less processed items. Look for single-ingredient options — like a bag of potatoes, which costs less than pre-cut, seasoned or frozen potatoes. Not only are whole foods cheaper, but they’re also healthier, making this a win-win for your wallet and your well-being.2. Go for Seasonal ProduceIn-season fruits and vegetables are cheaper, fresher and tastier. Consider these seasonal options:Sweet potatoesAcorn and Butternut SquashApplesCranberriesCabbageOrangesCollard GreensCarrotsFrozen options work, too — think berry cobbler or garlicky sautéed green beans that no one will guess came from the freezer.3. Choose Budget-Friendly ProteinFew things sabotage a grocery budget like an expensive cut of meat. This is where going whole can save you big. A whole rotisserie chicken is usually cheaper than a few chicken breasts. Use it for several meals — like chicken and mashed potatoes, chicken salad and chicken soup. Chicken thighs, and drumsticks, as well as beef brisket are also inexpensive meats.4. Make It from ScratchSkip the takeout and the convenience items at the store and cook at home instead. Turn on some tunes, get cooking and have fun while reducing your spending. When you cook at home, you also have more control over the ingredients and can skip extra salt, fat and sugar to keep your meals healthy and delicious.If baking, consider these healthier and cheaper substitutes:Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of oil or butter for moisture and fewer caloriesGreek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or heavy cream to reduce fat and add proteinWhole Wheat Flour: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrientsHoney or Maple Syrup: Use these natural sweeteners instead of refined sugar for a healthier sweetnessCoconut Oil: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a diary-free alternative with a subtle coconut flavorDark Chocolate: Choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate for higher antioxidant content and less sugar 5. Be Your Own BaristaPair your favorite flavored creamer with freshly brewed dark roast coffee at home to experience all the holiday vibes without spending a small fortune at the coffee shop. Brewing your coffee at home means you can afford to upgrade your beans to match the flavor of your favorite local brew. 6. Host a Potluck PartyWhen it’s your turn to host, let your guests help. Stay ahead of the “What can I bring” texts and put what you need in the invitation. An appetizer to share, a side dish or a fun dessert is an opportunity for your guests to bring what they like and take some of the pressure off hosting. Beverages can also cost a fortune. Select a few budget-friendly drink options and make a festive infused water with cranberries and fresh mint. Let your guests know what you’ll have on hand and if they want something different to BYOB (bring your own beverage).Enjoy the holidays without a financial hangoverThe holidays are about enjoying time with family and friends, not stressing over your grocery bill. By planning, embracing the flavors of the season and making smart swaps, you can create delicious festive meals without overspending. Happy holidays — and happy saving!About the Author Allison Maurer is the bariatric clinical coordinator for Luminis Health Weight Loss and Metabolic Surgery.
- Behavioral Health, Lung CareGeneral Page Tier 3BlogThe back-to-school seasons brings excitement—from new teachers to new backpacks. But amid the preparation, it’s also a key moment to have honest conversations with your teen about the risks of vaping and using marijuana. First, a reality check: In Maryland, 14% of high school students reported using marijuana in the past 30 days, according to the latest health data. While teen experimentation can be common, it doesn’t make it safe. That’s why it’s important to talk to your kids early and often. Sharing facts, not fear, can help them make informed, healthy choices. Marijuana’s impact on teenagers Marijuana is legal in Maryland, so it’s safe, right? Not for teens. Their brains are still developing and regular marijuana use can interfere with that growth in serious ways. Potential effects on children and adolescents include: Difficultly solving problems Impaired memory Poor physical coordination Slower reaction time Trouble focusing Increased irritability Increased risk of psychosis Interference with prescribed medication Still not convinced? Research shows that teens who start using pot before the age of 18 are seven times more likely to develop marijuana use disorder later in life—a condition where a person struggles to stop using marijuana, even when it negatively affects their health, school, or relationships. Vaping is more smoke and mirrors Vaping has become increasingly popular among young people. It’s often cheaper than cigarettes, comes in appealing flavors, and is heavily promoted on social media—which can make it especially attractive to teens. Many people assume that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking tobacco. But the reality is more complicated: Nicotine is still addictive. Most vapes contain nicotine—a highly addictive substance that can harm brain development in teens and increase the risk of future substance use. Harmful chemicals are still present. Vaping aerosols contain toxic substances like formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein—chemicals linked to lung damage and cancer risk. Lung injury is real. Vaping has been linked to serious lung illnesses, including EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury), which has led to hospitalizations and even deaths. Unknown long-term effects. Because vaping is relatively new, the full long-term health impacts are still unknown, but early research shows cause for concern. Tips for talking to teens about vaping and marijuana Having these conversations with your teen can feel uncomfortable at first. Here are some tips to get you started: Start early, talk often. Short, regular check-ins feel less like a lecture and more like a conversation. Lead with curiosity, not accusations. Ask open-ended questions: “What have you heard about vaping?” “How do kids get e-cigarettes?” Use facts, not fear. Share concrete data (e.g., nicotine addiction, lung injury, impaired brain development) instead of scare tactics. Connect to their goals. Explain how vaping or cannabis can hurt sports performance, concentration for classes, or driving safety. Model healthy coping skills. Discuss stressbusters such as exercise, music and journaling so nicotine or THC isn’t the default escape. Practice exit lines. Roleplay ways to say “no thanks” when offered a vape or joint (e.g., “I’ve got practice tomorrow,” “I’m good—don’t want the hassle”). Keep communication twoway. Listen without interrupting; validate feelings even if you disagree. Teens are more receptive when they feel heard. Set clear expectations and consequences. Explain family rules (e.g., no vaping, alcohol, or marijuana before 21) and what happens if they’re broken. Stay alert to peer influence and online marketing. Ask about social media trends or friends who vape; discuss how ads target teens. Revisit the topic. Trends, products, and pressures change quickly; schedule regular “checkins” rather than oneanddone talks. How Luminis Health can help Parenting can be tough, but you’re not alone. Luminis Health mental health providers, with expertise in adolescent care, have already laid the ground work. Through funding from the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission, behavioral health education and support services have been successfully delivered in six high schools in Prince George’s County. The program—developed in close partnership with local schools—has demonstrated meaningful impact in supporting student well-being. Due to its success, the state has renewed funding for the upcoming school year following a highly competitive grant process. This continued investment underscores the importance of school-based behavioral health initiatives and the strength of collaborative community partnerships. If you or your children need additional support, the Behavioral Health Urgent Care walk-in clinic at Luminis Health Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham offers treatment for non-life- threatening mental health needs for ages four and up. No appointment is necessary. Thanks to the state grant, we will expand our hours later this fall to include weeknights and Saturdays. Authors Dr. Jesselina Curry is the system medical director for ambulatory behavioral health services at Luminis Health. Supported by the Maryland Community Health Resources Commission and Maryland Consortium on Coordinated Community Supports, the views presented here are those of the grantee organization and not necessarily those of the Commission or Consortium.
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