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What is Behavioral Health?

The following excerpt and related link are provided as a benefit to ITD employees at the request of Human Resources .

Behavioral Health is the term used to describe what has long been known as mental health. It is a term that has been adopted for two reasons.

First, to address the often negative reaction to the word "mental."

Second, to broaden the discussion to include the habits, emotions, behaviors and choices that often reflect our mental health. The term "mental" was not only loaded with negative connotations, it also implied that the scope was limited to the function of the brain. Stigma around mental health is still a serious health issue in this country and a limitation for people who may otherwise benefit from assistance.

Behavioral Health is a more holistic approach to the relationship between our physical health and our environment. It implies that how we act and behave in the world is not limited to a single organ: the brain. Behavioral Health involves a greater appreciation for how the world shapes and influences our behavior as well as how our behavior influences the world around us.

Behavioral Health is concerned with more than the space between our ears. It is concerned with finding pleasure in being alive. Connecting with people. Feeling good about our total quality of fife. Our ability to face challenges. Thinking and acting reasonably to avoid crisis.

Talk Therapy
One of the most effective, preventive and healthy things we can do in the interest of our behavioral health is to talk. Most of us can and do talk often, honestly and closely with trusted friends and family.

There comes a time, however, when seeking professional assistance and guidance is more effective and productive. Professional behavioral (mental) health providers such as: licensed counselors, social workers, and psychologists, are trained in understanding the relationship between a healthy mind, body, loved ones, behaviors, and work.

More important, they have training in facilitating change that lasts. They can help us return to peace of mind and peak performance. The help they provide is often called therapy or counseling.

To read more, please check out information from ITD’s behavioral health provider, Business Psychology Associates, at http://www.bpahealth.com/e_whatisbehavioralhealth.html