Behavioral Health How Does Behavioral Health Differ From Mental Health?

A recent study found that 26% of adults suffer from a diagnosable behavioral disorder. The term behavioral disorder is often used interchangeably with mental disorders; however, they are two different studies. So what are the differences between the two? 

Don’t worry, with this guide you can find out! We’ve investigated the differences between behavioral health and mental health. That way, you can determine which services you need from the Apex Recovery Health center.  

Now, are you ready to get started? Here’s a quick look into behavioral health vs. mental health: 

What Is Behavioral Health? 

Behavioral health is concerned with the actions people take. It looks at how people respond to certain situations and how that response impacts a person’s overall health and well-being.  

For example, let’s take a look at one serious but common behavioral health condition: self-harm. To help a person who is harming themselves, behavioral health professionals will look specifically at the actions and reactions that lead an individual to harm themselves. 

Behavioral health professionals will generally advise therapy to their patients. Once there, behavioral professionals will help guide individuals on how to react differently and improve their overall well-being. Although, health professionals may also prescribe medication if a person’s behavior is due to their mental state. 

Other common behavioral health conditions include: 

• Substance Abuse 
• Eating Disorders 
• Addictive Behaviors (sex, gambling, video games) 
• Social Isolation 
• Poor Hygiene 
• Irregular Sleep Patterns 

What Is Mental Health? 

On the other hand, mental health looks at the brain and how your brain chemistry or genetic makeup influences mental health disorders. For example, let’s take a look at one prevalent mental health condition: Schizophrenia. 

Schizophrenia is a disorder that affects a person’s ability to think and behave clearly. It’s caused by a number of different factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and a person’s overall environment. 

To treat a person with Schizophrenia, mental health professionals will first prescribe medications to level a person’s brain chemistry and make thinking clearer. However, health professionals may also advise therapy to help patients through their negative behaviors.

Other common mental health conditions include: 

• Depression 
• Anxiety Disorder 
• Bipolar Disorder

Behavioral Health vs. Mental Health  

The two studies are pretty similar; in fact, behavioral health and mental health even overlap in a number of areas. However, the key difference is that behavioral health looks at a person’s physical actions and how they influence a person’s health.

In contrast, mental health looks at the biological factors of an individual and how they affect a person’s emotions, feelings, and overall health. 

Visit Behavioral Health Today 

Behavioral health is a complex area of study that often overlaps with mental health. It can be difficult to figure out which treatment study you need to obtain.

It’s best to seek a professional’s opinion if you are worried about your behavioral health or mental health. Often, the best professionals advise a collaborative approach that uses both behavioral health and mental health to form a diagnosis and curated treatment plan.  

Contact us today at Apex Recovery for more information about behavioral health. We’ll help you find the best treatment for you!