What is the difference between behavioral health and mental health?
Mental health and behavioral health are two terms that are often used interchangeably. However, there are some slight differences in their definitions. Mental health is usually used to describe thoughts, feelings, and emotions; it tends to focus more on a person’s psychological state. It can also emphasize clinical mental health diagnoses and substance use disorders.
Behavioral health often describes observable behaviors and actions—things that are more outwardly apparent and therefore can be easier to identify from an outsider’s perspective (such as habits and routines that can ultimately influence a person’s well-being). It can have a less negative stigma associated with it as it avoids the use of the word “mental”, which historically has had a somewhat negative connotation.
It is important to note that, in terms of clear, separate definitions for behavioral health vs mental health, PsychologyToday states, “The American Psychological Association and American Psychiatric Association don’t have formal positions on this.” Therefore, although we can define the terms separately, they are closely related and can be used to define similar concepts.
Understanding mental health
Mental health includes a person’s overall functioning across several wellness domains, such as emotional, psychological, and social health. Mental health includes psychological diagnoses such as adjustment disorders, depression, anxiety, and Bipolar disorder.
Defining behavioral health
Behavioral health involves patterns of destructive or unhealthy behaviors. Often, behavioral traits are automatic by nature; therefore, specific treatment to target behavioral modifications (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) can be very successful.
Where mental and behavioral health overlap
The terms behavioral vs mental health are often used interchangeably. Both can include thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that a person has. It is often thought that what distinguishes the two terms is that while mental health issues are also behavioral issues, not all behavioral issues are mental health issues.
How our urgent care center addresses behavioral and mental health
Our urgent care is expanding access to mental health by providing psychiatric and therapy services at many of our centers across different states. We have providers who can virtually or in person evaluate and treat mental health needs in a timely manner. To learn more about the services we provide, visit our services page.
Strategies for optimal well-being
Strategies for optimal well-being include implementing regular self-care routines (such as exercising, eating a balanced diet, and meditating) and utilizing professional mental health services as needed.
Need support? Our urgent care is here for you
For more ideas, visit our health library, where we provide multiple articles on a variety of health and wellness topics. A few resources that you might find helpful to learn more about behavioral vs mental health include Tips to Thrive at Work and Why Are Mental Health Days Important?
If you are in need of mental or behavioral help support, our caring providers are here for you.
Written by Sheri Gruner, Behavioral Health Therapist, MS, LPC, NCC