Why It’s Important to Have an Editorial Policy
Our Editorial Policy serves as the basis for all content published by NJBHC (NJ Behavioral Health Center), including web pages and educational resources. The accuracy of our material is one of our top priorities. We strive to create content that is accurate, easy to read and understand, and respectful of people and their families seeking credible resources regarding mental health and substance use treatment.
NJBHC produces educational resources that:
- Stay within the scope of our field
- Have undergone a rigorous process of checking for thoroughness and accuracy
- Adheres to NJBHC’s ethical principles of respect, transparency and accessibility
Our Editorial Process
Industry-Relevant Topics
NJBHC produces content that reflects real concerns for individuals researching treatment options and recovering from mental health and substance use issues.
Examples of relevant industry topics we cover include: care modalities, substance facts, educational materials for individuals with dual diagnoses, coping skills for those in recovery, how a family member can help an individual recovering from mental health and substance use issues, and how new developments are impacting recovery.
Qualified Contributors
All content produced by NJBHC is authored by or developed in collaboration with qualified professionals with expertise in their respective fields to ensure that the topics presented are based upon accepted standards of clinical care and are written in a factual, objective manner.
The professional contributors producing content for NJBHC have experience working in the following types of treatment: mental health, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. The editorial team highly values clinical expertise, but also values clarity. We make every effort to present difficult or complex clinical terminology in straightforward, easy-to-understand words with consideration of the reader in mind.
Quality of Content
NJBHC’s objective is to produce educational materials that will allow readers to make informed decisions. We work hard to eliminate confusion, as well as reduce fear-based messaging, and provide straightforward information explaining the topic at hand without relying on misleading claims or hype.
To help readers make informed decisions regarding mental health and substance use treatment, NJBHC adheres to the following guidelines:
- When practical, the use of person-first language
- To eliminate stigma, NJBHC will strive to avoid words or phrases that label individuals seeking treatment
- An explanation of each type of clinical terminology in terms readers will understand
- A balanced view of mental health and substance use treatment outcome predictions, as opposed to making promises regarding outcomes
- A supportive environment for the readers; not one that pressures them into making a specific decision
When including statistical data or other research findings in the content produced for NJBHC’s educational resources, NJBHC will provide the statistics in an appropriate format for ease of interpretation, with the appropriate context, so readers will clearly understand what the information does mean and does not mean. Statistics and medical information are also backed by verified peer-reviewed sources to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Reliability of Information Sources and Standards
The content involving medical, clinical, or scientific evidence relies exclusively on reputable sources and established practices. This may include government and public health organizations, reputable medical associations, and peer-reviewed literature.
Content is not used to sensationalise or oversimplify serious mental health and substance use disorders.
Review and Edit
All content is subject to a thorough edit for clarity, tone, accuracy, and readability. Content includes medically relevant information to ensure clinical accuracy and to be accessible to all readers in plain language without talking down to anyone.
We view this as essential, as many individuals read our content while they are under stress, up late searching for information, or trying to help a loved one.
Continued content reviews
Since the research and best practices of the behavioral health field are continuously changing, our team routinely revisits all published pages and articles to update, clarify, and bring the latest information available on clinical decisions and evidence to the pages.
Additionally, where applicable, we may also enhance existing content based on the questions we hear most frequently from people and their families.
Privacy and Boundaries
The New Jersey Behavioral Health Center website is intended for educational purposes only and should not be regarded as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you have concerns regarding your own health or that of someone else, we encourage you to contact a qualified healthcare provider for more specific guidance.
In no way will we collect any personal health information through educational content.
If you wish to speak to the New Jersey Behavioral Health Center, we will handle all communication with the greatest care and discretion.