Behavioral health refers to the way that behaviors impact mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This can include anything from eating and drinking habits to mental health challenges and much more. The term “behavioral health” is often used interchangeably with mental health; while behavioral health includes mental health, they are not the same thing.
Mental health focuses on the biological aspects of wellness, while behavioral health encompasses external factors such as habits, substance use, diet, and more. There is certainly overlap between the two, as external forces can impact mental health, and mental health can impact behaviors. For instance, drinking alcohol—even if not in an addictive way—can affect mood. A person with depression may not have the energy to exercise.
The Alvarado Parkway Institute describes the subtle differences between behavioral and mental health as follows: “Your mental health encompasses a number of factors, such as your biology, your psychological condition, and your habits. Your behavioral health, on the other hand, examines how your habits impact your overall physical and mental wellbeing.”[1]
You will see the term “behavioral health” most often when it comes to healthcare. Behavioral healthcare typically includes mental health and psychiatric care, addiction treatment, marriage counseling, and more. According to the National Business Group on Health, people who work in behavioral healthcare include social workers, counselors, neurologists, and physicians.[2] Behavioral healthcare is about taking into account all the factors that impact a person’s health.
If you are struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder, there is help and hope. TruHealing Centers offers high-quality treatment for addiction and mental health disorders in facilities across the country. We treat the whole person, helping you form healthier habits and coping skills to thrive in recovery. Call an admissions specialist at 410-593-0005.
[1] https://apibhs.com/2018/05/10/the-difference-between-mental-and-behavioral-health
[2] https://online.alvernia.edu/program-resources/behavioral-health-vs-mental-health