The Behavioral Health Program (BH Program) was developed in the 1970s as an adjunct to a broader system of care. It is one of several similar programs that are designed to increase awareness of behavioral health issues among the people who need it most. As a way to improve the quality of health care for all it works to reduce the number of behavioral health conditions in the population and to raise awareness among family members about their own children’s individual needs and conditions.
The BH Program addresses many issues related to the mental and physical well-being of children in an integrated community-based setting. It is intended to increase the quality of care provided to children families and adults. It works by incorporating a wide variety of approaches to addressing issues such as developmental disabilities and behavioral problems. Children and families are taught how to become more active participants in their families’ activities. They learn the social skills necessary for healthy interaction with other children family members and other community members. They are taught to identify and avoid unhealthy social behaviors. Family education and activities are designed to reduce the incidence and impact of negative behaviors.
The focus of the BH Program is on behavioral health. It does not address general medical issues. Instead it takes a holistic approach to reducing mental emotional and behavioral disorders and to developing a program of care that encourages the participation of families communities and the professionals who work with children families and their peers. It is meant to provide the basis for a comprehensive approach to health care for all children and all families.
