Behavioral Health

Behavioral health is a broad term that encompasses the connection between behaviors and the health and well-being of the body, mind, and spirit. It includes the prevention and treatment of mental health disorders, substance abuse issues, and other behaviors that impact overall health. [1]

Behavioral health focuses on habits like eating, drinking, exercising, and managing stress, which can significantly affect physical and mental health.

The behavioral health field includes various services and interventions designed to help individuals manage or change behaviors that contribute to mental and physical health problems. 

This can consist of therapy, counseling, medication management, and support for lifestyle changes. Behavioral health professionals work to promote positive behavior changes, enhance coping strategies, and support individuals in achieving a balanced and healthy life.

Behavioral Health vs. Mental Health

Behavioral health and mental health are closely related but distinct concepts.

Mental health specifically refers to the state of an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being, focusing on conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. 

Behavioral health, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses not only mental health but also how behaviors affect overall health and well-being. 

This includes substance abuse, eating habits, exercise, and other lifestyle choices. While mental health is a component of behavioral health, the latter covers a wider range of factors influencing both physical and mental health.

Who Can Behavioral Health Services Help?

People with mental health disorders as well as relational or temperamental issues can benefit from behavioral health therapies, such as:

• Postpartum depression
• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Eating disorders
• Substance use disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Personality disorders
• Anger management issues
• Trauma

Behavioral Health Integration

Behavioral health integration refers to the systematic coordination of primary care and behavioral health services, such as mental health and substance abuse treatment, within a single, unified healthcare system.[2]

This approach aims to provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s health, recognizing that mental and physical health are interconnected. 

By integrating these services, healthcare providers can deliver more holistic and efficient care, improving patient outcomes, enhancing access to behavioral health services, and reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care.[2]

This model often involves collaboration between primary care physicians, mental health specialists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement personalized treatment plans that address the full spectrum of a patient’s health needs.

Benefits of Behavioral Health Integration

Integrating behavioral health services and medical services can have countless benefits, including:[2]

• Reduce the stigma associated with behavioral health care
• Increase accessibility to treatment
• Improve the quality of life
• Promote whole-person care
• Reduce the risk of self-harm or suicide
• Increase positive health outcomes
• Improve patient satisfaction

Behavioral Health Practices & Therapies

Behavioral health practices and therapies are versatile and can help people with all types of issues. Common examples of behavioral therapies include:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): A structured, goal-oriented therapy focusing on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A type of CBT that emphasizes emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal skills, particularly for individuals with borderline personality disorder.
• Substance abuse counseling: Therapy focused on helping individuals overcome addiction to drugs or alcohol through support and behavioral change strategies.
• Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR): A program that incorporates mindfulness meditation to reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
• Motivational interviewing: A counseling approach that helps individuals find the motivation to make positive behavioral changes, particularly concerning substance use and health behaviors.
• Behavioral activation: A counseling approach that helps individuals find the motivation to make positive behavioral changes, particularly about substance use and health behaviors.
• Family therapy: Therapy that involves family members in treatment to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and support the individual’s recovery process.

• Applied behavior analysis (ABA): A therapy commonly used for individuals with autism that focuses on improving specific behaviors, such as social skills and communication.
• Stress management techniques: Practices like relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, and guided imagery to help reduce stress and improve coping skills.
• Biofeedback: A technique that teaches individuals to control physiological functions, such as heart rate and muscle tension, to reduce stress and anxiety.