Good health is dependent on a number of different factors. The food a person eats, the medical care they receive, and the daily actions they take all impact a person's life. Behavioral health care strives to improve patients' quality of life by addressing behaviors that encourage or hinder a healthy body and mind. Behavioral health care can treat these four conditions:
1. Depression
Depression can be caused by a myriad of different things. Genetics play a role in the expression of depression, but life circumstances can also trigger a depressive episode. Doctors theorize that depression occurs when neurochemicals in the brain become unbalanced. Antidepressants, such as SSRIs, can help. However, behavioral changes can also alleviate the symptoms of depression. A counselor may encourage a patient with depression to exercise regularly since routine exercise can lessen depressive symptoms.
2. Anxiety
Anxiety can come in many forms. Some people suffer from social anxiety, which is typically triggered in group settings. Other people suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, which is a more pervasive type of anxiety that can seem to stem from no discernible cause. Chronic anxiety can make a patient's life difficult and unpleasant. Some patients develop poor coping strategies as a result. Avoidant behaviors can cause patients to become agoraphobic, which can negatively impact their quality of life.
Behavioral health services can offer specialized counseling to people suffering from anxiety. Using cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, a counselor can teach their patients to manage anxiety symptoms in healthy ways. CBT can give patients the tools they need to fight their anxiety and live a fuller life with less fear.
3. Obesity
Obesity is sometimes considered a physical problem. After all, obesity can negatively impact a person's heart, endocrine system, joints, and more. However, the cause of obesity is often rooted in mental health concerns. Overeating is a behavior that is sometimes employed to cope with emotional dissatisfaction. By addressing the roots of your eating habits, a counselor can help you find healthier ways to cope. You may also speak to a dietician as part of your behavioral health care plan. A dietician can help you develop a nutritious eating plan that will help you lose weight.
4. Insomnia
Insomnia describes a condition where a person has chronic difficulties falling asleep. Sleep deprivation can seriously degrade your mental and physical health. A behavioral health counselor can help you develop habits that are conducive to a healthy sleep cycle. Going to sleep at a scheduled time and discontinuing nighttime use of electronic devices may help you combat your insomnia.
Reach out to a professional who provides behavioral health care for more information.
