Advancing Health Podcast
Behavioral Health
Hospitals and health systems provide essential behavioral health care services to millions of Americans every day.
The American Hospital Association has a long-standing commitment to support member efforts to deliver high-quality, accessible behavioral health services, including opioid stewardship. Consistent with that commitment, this web page is designed to provide easy access to information and tools that will assist them in navigating the changing behavioral health care system and understanding national, state and local activities affecting behavioral health.
If you or a loved one are experiencing an emotional crisis or thoughts of suicide, support is available. Click here to learn more about free services, providing confidential support, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
AHA’s Behavioral Health Strategic Priorities | 2025
In spring 2020, the AHA identified three strategic priorities — Relief, Recovery and Rebuilding — to start planning for what health care should look like in a post-pandemic world. To further unify its strategic efforts, the AHA also established three strategic focus areas, which include workforce, health equity and behavioral health. Below you will find the goals for the behavioral health strategic priority.
Integration
Increase hospitals and health systems’ integration of physical and behavioral health services in acute inpatient, emergency department, and primary care. (NEW RESOURCES!)
Community Partnerships
Further initiatives by hospitals and health systems, community partners, social service agencies, and others to expand access to a continuum of behavioral health services in a region.
Stigma Reduction
Reduce stigma and deaths of despair, while addressing the unique stigmas of specific age groups, cultures and other demographics.
Suicide Prevention
Prevent suicide through behavioral health initiatives, awareness and intervention.
Featured Resource
Chair File: Leadership Dialogue – Advancing Health and Building Trust
AHA’s Board Chair Tina Freese Decker speaks with Lynn Hanessian, former chief health strategist for Edelman, which recently released its 2025 Trust Barometer; and AHA Board Member Robert Trestman, M.D., chair of psychiatry and behavioral health at Carilion Clinic, past chair of AHA’s Committee on Behavioral Health and AHA Board Liaison to the American Psychiatric Association. The conversation centers around trends in public trust, not only in health care but across industries. They also discuss opportunities for hospitals and health systems as they navigate the current environment of increased distrust.
Behavioral Health Resources
Get Help Now
If you or a loved one are experiencing an emotional crisis or thoughts of suicide, support is available. The following services provide free, confidential support and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For emotional support related to COVID-19, call the Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
For those experiencing a suicidal crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
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