The Difference Between Behavioral Health and Mental Health

There is a lot of confusion about the difference between behavioral health and mental health. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are actually two different things. Behavioral health is the umbrella term that refers to all of the different aspects of a person’s mental health. This includes things like their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Mental health, on the other hand, is a specific aspect of behavioral health that refers to a person’s emotional state and their ability to function in everyday life.

Additionally, mental health is considered to be a spectrum, with a wide range of severity. Someone who is at the high end of the spectrum may be unable to work or socialize, while someone at the low end may only experience occasional problems. Case Management is a way to bring more structure and creates coping skills for people that may need additional support. Mental health disorders do not necessarily have to be behavioral health. Some of those are schizophrenia, depression, generalized anxiety disorder or bipolar disorder.

Behavioral health also factors in people’s physical health and social well-being. It takes into account other elements such as an individual’s environment, lifestyle, and culture. Disorders are typically a product of maladaptive or negative behaviors. Some of those are substance abuse, gambling, sex addiction, or eating disorders. Mental health can be defined as a state of emotional and psychological well-being in which an individual is able to use their cognitive and emotional abilities, function in society, and meet the ordinary demands of life.

Mental health and behavioral health do intersect in many situations, as some mental health disorders can cause behavioral issues, and conversely, behavioral health disorders can be aided by working with psychiatric professionals. Regardless, both of these topics should always be handled with detailed customized care for each person.

At Accord, we strive to help people with mental health issues live their greatest lives through the resources established and provided to the community we serve.