May 12 – 18 is National Women’s Health Week, coordinated by the U.S. government’s Office on Women’s Health to promote the improvement of women’s physical and mental health. A woman frequently juggles her career, family, home and social life so that taking care of herself falls to the bottom of a long to-do list. While this is fine on occasion, chronic neglect can aggravate existing stress and endanger physical and mental health. National Women’s Health…

The World Health Organization established World No Tobacco Day, observed annually on May 31, to reduce tobacco consumption and prevent tobacco-related deaths. Because smoking can affect mental illnesses, Brookhaven Retreat encourages women to eliminate tobacco use in order to improve physical and mental health. Some studies speculate that smoking tobacco may help regulate the adverse effects of psychotropic medications. Women may also attempt to manage anxiety and depression with tobacco use. Studies have found, however,…

National Nurses Week, celebrated annually on May 6-12, recognizes the significant impact nurses have on patient wellbeing. Brookhaven Retreat’s nurses are deeply involved in the mental health recovery of its clients, and in May, it celebrates the care and compassion they demonstrate daily for the women in its program. Brookhaven Retreat’s nurses interact with women suffering from emotional and addiction issues from the moment they enter treatment to the moment they depart the facility. The…

On May 1-4, Dr. Lynn Swisher visited Brookhaven Retreat to ensure Joint Commission Compliance and oversee performance improvement initiatives. May’s staff and safety goals included an evaluation of the Joint Commission’s new Focused Standards Assessments as well as training for all staff on performance improvement procedures and compliance. The longer visit enabled Dr. Swisher to meet with weekend staff so that all staff could receive training. Brookhaven Retreat’s Medical Director, Dr. Julia Wood, met with…

In May, Brookhaven Retreat begins work on its 2013 garden. The garden is being planted with a variety of vegetables, including cherry and Roma tomatoes, bell peppers, squashes and runner beans. It will also include a wide range of culinary herbs as well as berries and ornamental flowers. Clients and dining staff work together to develop and maintain the garden as a communal project. Studies have shown that gardening decreases levels of the stress hormone…

In May, Brookhaven Retreat welcomed nurse Coco Ray back to work. After a three-month leave for surgery, May 3 marked Coco’s first day back to Brookhaven. A famous fixture at Brookhaven Retreat, she is the facility’s longest-standing nurse. Staff and clients are delighted to have her back. The week of May 3 also marked nurse April Chandler’s return from maternity leave. Brookhaven Retreat is so excited to welcome April back, and congratulates her on her…

Brookhaven Retreat joins organizations across the nation in observing Mental Health Month. It celebrates by rededicating itself to its mission of comprehensive recovery for women with mental health or substance abuse issues. Mental Health Month, observed annually in May, was created to increase awareness and decrease stigma surrounding mental illnesses such as borderline personality disorder, depression and anxiety disorders. This year’s theme, Pathways to Wellness, seeks to educate the public about strategies to achieving mental…

National Pet Week, observed May 5-11, began to foster responsible pet ownership and honor the human-animal bond. Brookhaven Retreat believes that pets have an indispensable place in mental health recovery as therapy and service animals. Pets have a unique bond with their owners and provide a range of physical and mental health benefits from lowering blood pressure to reducing the risk of depression and anxiety. There are several types of service dogs beneficial for women…