Chapter 2: BHI definitions

Learn why BHI is important and its many benefits in Chapter 2, including key definitions:

What is behavioral health (BH)?

For this Compendium, behavioral health (BH) refers to care that addresses mental health and substance use disorders, life stressors and crises, and stress-related physical symptoms.

What is behavioral health integration (BHI)?

BHI is widely accepted as the result of primary care (or other care settings) and behavioral health clinicians, working together with patients and families, using a systematic approach to provide patient-centered care.

Chapter 3: Introduction to Various Models of Care

This chapter includes the basic elements of the most common models of care, which can be implemented as is, or in a combination most appropriate for a specific practice.

Explore the different models of care and selection criteria for level of integration, to choose what’s right for your practice.

Resources

• The Six Levels of Collaboration/Integration: The six levels of collaboration/integration are organized by Coordinated, Co-Located, and Integrated in this table. The core description, key differentiators, strengths and weaknesses of each level are explained.
• Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) Information and Details: Find further information and detail on the CoCM, including free training.

With an increased number of people reporting worsening mental health in recent years, it is imperative that people are aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) telephone program.

People experiencing a suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress can call, chat or text 988, and speak to trained crisis counselors. The national hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The previous National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will continue to be operational and route calls to 988 indefinitely.