Fifty Mental and Behavioral Health Terms To Know
Thrive • October 5, 2022
Thrive Wellness’ interdisciplinary specialists have compiled a list of mental and behavioral health terms to help deepen understanding, expand awareness, and encourage enlightened conversations about the space. Explore definitions for mental and behavioral health professionals, struggles, treatment approaches, and wellness practices below.
DEFINING MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
- Behavioral health : The ways an individual’s actions affect their physical and mental well-being
- Mental health : A person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being
TERMS TO DESCRIBE MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
- Therapist : Licensed mental and behavioral health professionals who treat a myriad of mental and behavioral health conditions through psychotherapy
- Psychiatrist : A medical doctor who specializes in prescribing medication for managing mental and behavioral health conditions
- Psychologist : A mental and behavioral health professional that often has a Ph.D. in psychology and can test for mental and behavioral health conditions
TERMS TO DESCRIBE MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CONCERNS AND CONDITIONS
- Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) : Potentially traumatic events that occur during one’s youth linked to negative outcomes on physical, mental, and behavioral health
- Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) : An eating disorder characterized by difficulty eating due to sensory aversions, general lack of interest in food, or fear of adverse consequences
- Anorexia nervosa : An eating disorder involving significant weight loss, calorie restriction, and distorted body image
- Anxiety : Feelings of dread, fear, and worry that occur without the presence of a trigger
- Binge eating disorder (BED) : An eating disorder characterized by frequently eating large quantities of food and feeling a loss of control while eating
- Bipolar disorder : A mood disorder characterized by dramatic and sudden emotional highs and lows that last anywhere between hours to months at a time
- Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) : A mental health diagnosis characterized by a fixation on one’s own perceived body imperfections, which are generally imperceptible to others
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD) : A mental health condition that causes a person to experience their emotions much more intensely and for a longer period of time than the average person
- Bulimia nervosa : An eating disorder expressed by frequently eating large quantities of food, feeling a loss of control while eating, and compensatory purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or abusing laxatives
- Comorbidity : The simultaneous presence of two or more mental, behavioral, or physical health conditions in a person, such as an eating disorder and an anxiety disorder
- Diabulimia : A condition that, although not an official medical diagnosis, is recognized by the eating disorder treatment community and describes when insulin-dependent diabetes co-occurs with an eating disorder
- Depression : A mood disorder associated with feelings of deep lasting sadness
- Disordered eating behaviors : Any approaches to feeding oneself that prevent a person from nourishing their body adequately, consistently, and with a wide variety of foods
- Eating disorders : Behavioral health conditions characterized by habitual and harmful disordered eating behaviors, such as calorie restriction, binge eating, or purging, that interfere with one’s ability to carry out daily activities
- Panic attacks : Brief and intense episodes of anxiety that those with panic disorder typically experience
- Panic disorder : An anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent panic attacks often brought on by a heightened sensitivity to bodily sensations, such as dizziness, shortness of breath, quickened pulse, tingling, and numbness
- Pediatric feeding disorder (PFD) : A condition that affects youth and limits their intake of food because of medical conditions or deficits in motor skills
- Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) : An array of mental health conditions that may arise during the prenatal period such as anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis, among others
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) : A mental health condition that a person can develop after direct or indirect exposure to a traumatic event characterized by symptoms of intrusion, avoidance, negative changes in mood and cognition, and changes in arousal or reactivity
- Psychosis: A mental health condition characterized by a disconnect from reality
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) : A type of depression commonly beginning in the fall or winter and ending in the spring that interferes with a person’s ability to engage in everyday life and find pleasure in activities that typically spark joy
- Self-harm : Purposefully hurt oneself often as a means of finding relief from emotional pain
- Stress : The body’s natural response to pressure-inducing circumstances, such as deadlines, arguments, or illness
- Sexual assault : Any sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the victim
- Substance use disorder (SUD) : A behavioral health condition characterized by the recurrent use of drugs or alcohol despite harmful effects on one’s life
- Trauma : An emotional response to a distressing event such as abuse, accidents, violence, or the death of a loved one
TERMS TO DESCRIBE MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TREATMENT
- Art therapy : An evidence-based therapeutic intervention that allows clients to express themselves and process their experiences through creative mediums
- Case manager : The main point of contact for clients in higher level of care treatment programs that maintains the flow of information between the client, their family, and their providers, advocates for the client, and helps integrate the client’s personalized treatment plan
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) : A therapeutic modality effective at treating disorders that are complex and co-occurring by helping individuals learn necessary skills for reducing suffering and fostering happiness in their lives
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) : A treatment structure for specific mental or behavioral health conditions that typically offers clinical care four hours daily, three to five days a week
- Medication management : The use of prescription medication to treat mental and behavioral health conditions
- Mental and behavioral health assessments : A series of questions for new clients seeking mental or behavioral heal th care intended for clinicians to gain an overview of clients’ mental and behavioral health so treatment can align with their needs
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP) : A treatment structure for specific mental or behavioral health conditions that typically offers clinical care six to eight hours daily, five to seven days a week
- Play therapy : A therapeutic modality that implements play as a way for clients to access and convey their inner experiences, rather than asking clients to articulate their thoughts and emotions
- Residential treatment program: A treatment structure for specific mental or behavioral health conditions that typically requires a person to live at a facility and offers full-time care
- Support group : A regular gathering of individuals facing similar challenging circumstances who come together intending to understand their experiences and find comfort
- Treatment team : Interdisciplinary specialists that work together to provide targeted, connected client care
TERMS TO DESCRIBE MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS
- Health at Every Size® (HAES®) movement : An approach that challenges existing public health narratives regarding the belief that weight determines one’s well-being and encourages society to focus on well-being as an attribute that people in all bodies possess
- Intuitive eating : A holistic nutrition framework that focuses on using internal cues rather than external rules to help guide eating and movement choices
- Mind-body wellness : The intertwining influence of one’s mental, emotional, and physical health on overall well-being
- Mindful eating : A nutrition approach that applies the principles of mindfulness to eating experiences by encouraging individuals to focus on the experience of food without judgment or worrying about what’s in the food
- Mindful movement : Physical activity that involves intentionally moving one’s body in an enjoyable way
- Mindfulness : A mental state that characterized by present moment awareness without judgment or interpretation
- Self-care : The practice of intentionally engaging in activities or behaviors that promote one’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being based on personal tastes, interests, and needs
- Sleep hygiene : The act of ensuring one’s surroundings, routines, and mindset are aligned with the requirements for optimal sleep
MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE AT THRIVE WELLNESS
Skilled at implementing a variety of evidence-based therapeutic interventions for mental and behavioral health struggles, our interdisciplinary specialists help facilitate clients’ healing and create space for comprehensive wellness. To learn more about our integrated mental and behavioral health services , reach out .
While all Thrive Wellness locations offer interdisciplinary clinical teams who collaborate to treat eating disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and additional mental and behavioral health conditions, programs and services may vary by location.
The post Fifty Mental and Behavioral Health Terms To Know first appeared on Thrive Wellness.
This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .
Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.
You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.
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