Mental Health Services: An Overview

Points to Remember

Mental illnesses can affect persons of any age, race, religion, or income. They are not caused by weakness or lack of character. And yet, stigmatization of people with mental disorders persists. Do not let this stop you from seeking the care you need. The consequences for people with a mental health disorder who fail to obtain treatment include disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, inappropriate incarceration, or suicide. The sooner you get help, the sooner you will feel better.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, known as talk therapy, is a learning process in which mental health professionals help individuals who have mental health disorders through the exchange of verbal communication. Some types of psychotherapy are:

• Psychodynamic—The role of the past in shaping the present is emphasized to try to understand a person’s behavior (how people come to act and feel as they do, including the influences of which people are not aware).
• Behavioral—This type of therapy focuses on the patient's current behavior patterns rather than on early behavior patterns.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy—This is a blend of behavioral therapy and cognitive therapy. It focuses on changing a person's thinking and actions so that they are more adaptive and healthy.
• Humanistic—Also known as existential, experiential, or Gestalt therapy, humanistic therapy focuses on the immediate experience of the client.

Advances in Technology

The explosive growth of cell phone, tablets, and apps that support them have helped healthcare providers connect with their patients. Technology cannot replace face-to-face contact, but it can be used to enhance and support treatment.

Mobile support can be convenient, anonymous, and provide someone with 24-hour help. However, there are drawbacks. It is not clear how effective apps are in helping people. Others may be concerned about the lack of privacy.

As technology changes and treatment methods follow suit, it is important to think about the best ways you and your doctor can work together. Under the right circumstances, your cell phone or tablet can help you better manage your illness as stressful situations arise.

Pharmacological Therapies

Medications used to treat mental health disorders include:

• Antipsychotics (neuroleptics)
• Antidepressants
• Stimulants
• Mood stabilizers
• Anti-anxiety (anxiolytics)

If you need pharmacologic therapy, your doctor will be able to determine which type of medication is right for you. In some severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used.

If You Have Private Insurance

Health plans vary in terms of what they cover. Find out what treatments and services your plan covers or shop around if you are in the process of selecting a plan. If you are not satisfied with your mental health benefits, consider talking to your employee benefits manager or union representative to try to improve your coverage.

If You Are Underinsured or Uninsured

There are several resources available to people who do not have health insurance:

• Public assistance for the uninsured includes:
  • Medicare—a federal insurance program for people 65 years and above and some with disabilities under 65
  • Medicaid—a federal and state insurance program that pays for healthcare for the poorest and most vulnerable Americans
• Community-based resources—Community mental health centers offer a range of treatment and counseling services. For people without private insurance, they generally require that you are a recipient of public assistance.
• Pastoral counseling—Your church or synagogue may offer counseling, often on a sliding-scale fee basis.
• Self-help groups—Groups give people the chance to learn about, talk about, and work on common problems. They are generally free and can be found in most communities.
• Sliding-scales—Many private practices offer sliding scales, so that individuals with financial need can still seek help. Always ask whether such an arrangement is available.