The term Behavioral health was first used almost 40 years ago. Over time, however, the meaning has changed. While behavioral health is often used as a synonym of mental health, there are important differences.
Mental health refers to a person’s psychological state, but behavioral health is about a person’s habits, such as their eating and sleeping patterns, or the lifestyle choices that they make. etc. A person may have a mental illness that is accompanied by a behavioral problem or a physical condition. Research shows that 70 percent of mental health problems are linked to behavioral health issues. Behavioral health services and treatment have been essential in combating the disease.
A study found that around 44 million people suffer from mental health problems each year, but only 40% of them are able receive treatment. People don’t seek treatment for mental disorders because of many factors. 60% of people don’t seek treatment due to social stigma. Others do not seek treatment because they aren’t diagnosed, have no money or lack access to reliable mental health facilities.
Behavioral Healthcare Services
Behavioral health services do not only include mental health treatment programs. The range of services available has increased with its expanding scope. These services include:
Psychiatric
Psychology
Counselling for mental health
Counseling for family and marital issues
Treatment for substance abuse, including recovery, prevention and intervention
Management of chronic diseases
Understanding Behavioral Health
Behavioral health is the study of how daily habits affect mental and physical health. Good habits, such as healthy eating, exercising, and sleeping patterns, can lead to good mental and physical health. Bad habits can lead to poor mental and physical health.
Based on your lifestyle choices, you might be diagnosed with a behavioral disorder.
Living in dirty conditions
Eating disorder
Social isolation
Sleep disorder (sleeping too little or too often)
Substance abuse includes drug, alcohol and chemical dependence
Addictions such as gambling, sex and compulsive buying are all examples.
Why is it so difficult to seek treatment?
People don’t seek treatment for their behavioral disorders because they are in denial. They find it difficult to admit that they have a problem. Others believe it is an individual choice and it therefore cannot be considered a problem. There are many reasons why you might not seek treatment. Other reasons could include:
Social stigmatization and embarrassment
Fear of being judged by society
Incapability to recognize symptoms clearly
Inadequacy of support and trust
Feelings depressed and helpless
What are the Benefits of Seeking Treatment?
Although behavioral health disorders can be complex and require personalized treatment, it can be difficult for patients to accept treatment. Knowing the benefits of treatment may be enough to convince patients to seek it. These are the benefits of seeking treatment:
Increases the quality of your life
Combat mental illness at its root
Personal and professional relationships are improved
This reduces the likelihood of complications, especially for those with addiction-related issues.
Improves productivity
Reduces the risk of developing medical problems
What are the Treatment Options?
The treatment plan for a behavioral disorder could include a combination or a combination of multiple therapies. Group therapy is the most important. Support groups and encouragement can help patients understand themselves better and reach their goals. Patients can also benefit from group therapy, which provides them with the opportunity to meet others who are going through similar difficulties. Interacting with these people helps patients realize they are not the only ones. They also get the moral support they need to take care themselves and continue their treatment. But, it takes multiple professionals to create customized treatment plans. These professionals could include:
Psychiatrists These providers can address many issues. They are experts in psychiatry, including issues relating to adolescence, childhood struggles and substance abuse. They can prescribe medication to treat behavioral disorders.
Psychologists are professionals with experience in psychology consulting. This includes clinical psychology. They perform diagnostic work and provide psychotherapy to the patient.
Social workers are government-run programs that provide assistance. They are involved in many areas related to mental health and substance abuse in children, as well as mental health in the less fortunate.
Licensed professional counsellors: These counselors are trained to treat patients with psychotherapy. These counselors may be trained to treat specific behavioral issues, such as substance abuse and family problems.
Residential treatment centres: These inpatient treatment facilities allow people to live under 24-hour medical supervision. Patients receive a customized treatment plan based on the severity and duration. These centers offer a safe environment to treat and prevent relapse.