What Should You Do If Your Employer's Health Insurance Doesn't Cover Mental Health?

It's a reality for many individuals that the health insurance coverage provided by their employers may not include comprehensive mental health support. This can be particularly frustrating, especially when dealing with conditions like long-term COVID syndrome, cPTSD, and bipolar disorder.

Understanding the Legal Requirements

According to federal and state laws, health insurance
providers are mandated to cover mental health conditions. If you believe your employer's insurance plan is not adhering to these regulations, you can contact your state's Department of Insurance. These government offices are responsible for ensuring insurers comply with legal requirements. Additionally, laws prohibit discrimination against individuals with mental health issues, guaranteeing workplace access to mental healthcare services.

Seeking Help Within Your Organization

If your employer is a small business or a family-owned establishment, the likelihood of receiving mental health benefits may be lower. However, it's worth discussing the situation with your primary care physician (PCP) for guidance and recommendations. Many PCPs can refer you to specialized mental health providers.

Personal experience has shown that connecting with your county services office can be incredibly beneficial. For instance, prior to receiving disability benefits and working part-time with no health insurance, I accessed mental health care services through the county on a sliding fee basis. After transitioning to Medicare and Medicaid, I have continued to use county-provided services, which are now free for me.

However, it's important to note that county services may experience staff turnover. In an area like a university town with a strong counseling program, many providers are often interns looking for experience and now highly competitive positions. While this can be a drawback, it doesn't diminish the value of the care provided. Finding a consistent and committed mental health provider within the county system can be life-changing.

Conclusion

While the availability of mental health coverage through employer-provided insurance can be inconsistent, there are alternative resources available. Government departments, small referrals from your PCP, and county-provided services can offer much-needed support. In my case, the county has been a true godsend, and I highly recommend exploring these options if you find yourself without mental health coverage.