Behavioral Health

 
 

Understanding behavioral or mental health

Behavioral health, or mental health, is about how we think, feel and act. It affects how we deal with stress, get along with others and make decisions. 

Good mental health helps us live better, handle daily responsibilities, and enjoy life. Poor mental health can harm our body, lower our self-esteem, and affect how we connect with others and the world around us. 

ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder that makes it hard for people to focus, be patient, and sit still. People with ADHD may have trouble with school, work, and relationships. ADHD can affect children and adults.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal feeling of worry or nervousness that happens when we face stress or feel threatened. If these feelings of anxiety do not go away, we may have an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions and can affect people of any age or gender.  

Autism spectrum disorder (PDF)

Autism is a condition that affects how people communicate, behave, and interact with others. It can look very different from person to person. Some people with autism can speak, while some use other ways to communicate. Some may have learning difficulties, while others do not. Some need a lot of help in daily life, and others need little or no help. In the U.S., autism is usually diagnosed around age 5, with signs appearing by age 2 or 3. 

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that can cause sudden changes in mood and energy. It can cause you to feel both very happy and very sad. Bipolar disorder can damage your relationships and put you at risk for emotional problems and even suicide.

It is important to talk to your doctor or mental health provider if you think you or a loved one has bipolar disorder. There are medications and other treatments that can help.

Major depressive disorder (depression)

Depression is not just an everyday problem. It is a real illness that can affect your health and well-being. If you are depressed, you may feel sad, have trouble sleeping, or no longer enjoy things you usually do. If these symptoms last for more than a couple of weeks, you may have depression.

Postpartum depressive disorder (PDD) is a serious condition that can happen during or after pregnancy. It can cause deep sadness, worry, and tiredness, making it hard to take care of yourself or your baby. The good news is that PDD can be treated, and help is available. It’s important to talk to your doctor as soon as possible to get the right support and care. 

Psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder)

Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population of the United States. It is a disorder that can include symptoms like delusions, hallucinations, attention problems, and other mental health issues. People with schizophrenia may seem out of touch with reality.

It can be very hard to support a loved one with schizophrenia. They may say things that are not true or act on things that are not real. Schizophrenia is a real illness that can have a big effect on your health and well-being.

Substance use

Substance use disorder is when using drugs or alcohol causes problems in your life, like with your health, school, job, or family. It can also lead to legal trouble. Common illegal drugs include opioids, cocaine, methamphetamines, and marijuana. Alcohol is the most common legal drug linked to the disorder. Addiction can be mild or very serious, but it is a treatable condition. Help and treatment are available when you or someone you care about is ready. Our website offers resources to help you determine if you need alcohol or substance use treatment, and where to find it.

Stress, trauma, and grief

How anxiety, grief, trauma, and loss can affect your life and what you can do to help stay healthy.

Mental health treatment

In-person, telehealth and online resources to help you identify and cope with a mental health condition, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, depression in an adult or teen, or schizophrenia.

Tobacco cessation

Resources that can help you cut down on your tobacco use or quit it completely.

To learn more about First Choice behavioral health and other plan benefits, or if you need help finding a behavioral health provider, contact Member Services at 1-888-276-2020. If you need help or have specific questions about behavioral health, talk to your primary care provider (PCP) or mental health provider.