What Is Behavioral Health?
West Des Moines, IA (09/11/2024) — Behavioral health encompasses the connection between behaviors and the health and well-being of the body, mind and spirit. This includes not only mental health issues like depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder, but also behaviors such as eating habits, alcohol consumption, sleep patterns and exercise, all of which significantly impact mental and physical health.
Behavioral health is a critical component of comprehensive health care. It reflects the interplay between daily habits and overall well-being and is closely linked to our ability to function effectively in everyday life. Problems in behavioral health can manifest as mental health disorders, substance abuse issues, or more subtle problems like sleep disturbances, chronic pain or difficulty handling stress.
At Des Moines University Clinic - Behavioral Health, we integrate osteopathic principles to treat the mind and body holistically. Our dedicated team understands the vital role behavioral health plays in overall health and is committed to helping patients navigate their issues through medication management and psychotherapy.
Conditions We Treat
Depression: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a loss of interest in life activities, depression can affect sleep, concentration, motivation, relationships and the ability to function.
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: These symptoms are common during pregnancy and can be debilitating. Our clinic provides care and evidence-based recommendations to mothers during pregnancy, breastfeeding and post-partum.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks: While stress and worry can be normal, anxiety disorders cause exaggerated responses that interfere with daily life. Symptoms include panic attacks, irritability, restlessness, reduced concentration and sleep disturbances.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts, images and/or compulsive and disruptive behaviors.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD develops after experiencing a traumatic event, causing symptoms like intrusive thoughts, heightened anxiety, disrupted sleep and concentration issues.
Medication Management: Our providers offer medication management services for a variety of mental health illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, OCD, PTSD and many others.
Many of the conditions covered are treated with therapy, medication and/or a combination of both. Be sure to speak with a provider to find out which option supports you best.
If you or a loved one is struggling with behavioral health issues, we encourage you to reach out to us. Whether you're dealing with a diagnosed mental health condition or feeling overwhelmed by stress, we're here to help.
By choosing Des Moines University - Behavioral Health, you are opting for a comprehensive and empathetic approach to mental health that respects and addresses the complexities of the human experience. Whether you are dealing with a diagnosed mental health condition or feeling overwhelmed by stress, we are here to help. Our hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Call 515-271-1716 to schedule an appointment and begin your journey to better behavioral health.
Des Moines University Clinic is a multispecialty clinic affiliated with Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences. Situated in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa, the clinic also offers a secondary location in West Des Moines. Our clinicians are more than just providers - they are researchers, mentors and teachers who are at the forefront of medical science. DMU Clinic offers exceptional health care services across various specialties including behavioral health, family medicine, osteopathic manual medicine, physical therapy, podiatry, radiology and sports performance. DMU Clinic's collaborative and patient-centered approach guarantees the highest level of care and expertise for our patients.
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Denise Lamphier, 515-271-1382, media@dmu.eduShare this Story
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