At the core of many human activities lie behavioral health services; an essential asset for individuals, families, organizations, and communities. It is now more important than ever for people to be aware of the services available to them, as proper management of mental health and general wellbeing can have a huge positive effect on a society.
Behavioral health services are interventions carried out by professionals that provide therapeutic assistance to individuals, families, and community groups. These services are designed to help people achieve improved mental health, strengthen relationships, and build improved functioning on an individual, family, or organizational level. There are seven common types of behavioral health services: psychological services, community mental health services, rehabilitative services, case management services, supportive housing services, educational services, and residential services.
At the core of psychological services are psychotherapists, licensed clinicians who specialize in providing counseling to individuals and families. Therapy for individuals can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which helps them become more aware and in control of their thoughts, feelings, and behavior; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder treatment, which helps individuals manage symptoms of inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsivity; and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which promotes mindful self-awareness and distress tolerance. Family therapy can focus on topics such as communication skills, building emotional rapport, and managing conflict.
Community mental health services typically take place in a specific community and are designed to meet the needs of individuals, families, and organizations living in that community. Different types of community mental health services can include support groups, counseling, or brief crisis interventions. These services are designed to empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives and strengthen their community, while preventing significant mental issues from developing.
Rehabilitative services are another important component of behavioral health services. These services are designed to help individuals suffering from mental illnesses or emotional distress with the successful transition to more independent living. The goal of these services is to help people regain the skills and resources they need to maximize their potential in the community. Examples of rehabilitative services include therapeutic activities, motivational counseling, vocational coaching, and independent living skills training.
Case management services are designed to help people with mental health issues access necessary resources and link them to services. This can include screening for mental health or substance use problems, creating treatment plans, providing resources, and coordinating referrals to specialists.
Supportive housing services are designed to give individuals a safe and supportive environment they can live in. Typically, these services are provided through a housing program where staff assists individuals in obtaining the skills and resources needed to become self-sufficient. These services include helping individuals access education and job opportunities, organizing transportation and personal care assistance, and providing financial assistance.
Educational services are intended to help individuals with mental health issues improve their knowledge and skills. This can include helping an individual understand their diagnostics and treatment plan, offering medication or lifestyle management support, and providing support in developing coping strategies.
Finally, residential services are designed to give individuals with mental health issues a safe and supportive environment to live in. These services can include residential care provided in an assisted living facility or apartment, day treatment programs and medical treatment, or even group homes to help individuals transition back into the community.
In order to unlock the full potential of individuals, families, organizations, and communities, it is important to understand and provide access to these seven types of behavioral health services. Through proper utilization and management of these services, individuals, families, and organizations can become self-sufficient, healthier, and more connected and supportive of one another. Ultimately, this can help promote increased well-being and equity across all communities.