May is Mental Health Month, and Benefits.gov wants to guide you to government programs and resources that may help.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental disorders affect tens of millions of Americans each year, however, only a fraction of those affected receive treatment. Whether dealing with depression, an eating disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder, mental health issues should be taken seriously and those affected should receive the care and medical attention they need.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). SAMHSA focuses on programs and funding for improving the lives of people with or at risk of mental and substance abuse disorders. SAMHSA collaborates with states, national and local community-based and faith-based organizations, and public and private sector providers. This collaborative effort ensures that people with or at risk of a mental or addictive disorder have the opportunity to achieve a fulfilling life, including meaningful relationships with family and friends, a home and a job. SAMHSA provides documents and resources for any person with or at risk of mental and substance abuse disorders. To find mental health services in your community, use SAMHSA’s Mental Health Services Locator.
Mental Health and Hard Economic Times
Mental Health issues can also be related to environmental stress. Many Americans found themselves out of a job and struggling to make ends meet in the wake of the recent economic downturn. If you or a loved one has been impacted, you may want to read he SAMHSA guide to Getting Through Tough Economic Times to learn more about identifying health risks and warning signs, as well as tips for managing stress during these challenging economic times. For members of the military and their loved ones, SAMHSA has a page dedicate to mental health information and resources for Military Families.
Mental Health and Medicare
If you are on Medicare, the HHS’s Mental Health Services Booklet from the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services may help you determine the required qualifications, what is covered, as well as the payment guidelines for each service. You may also want to visit MentalHealth.gov and use the search tool to find Mental Health resources provided by the government that may help you or a loved one.
Need more resources?
For more programs related to your health, check out the Healthcare and Medical Assistance category on Benefits.gov. It is also encouraged that you take the Benefit Finder questionnaire to find more government benefits that you may be eligible to receive.
If you or someone you know are in immediate need of help, follow the recommendations on the NIMH Suicide Prevention page and call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to be connected to a trained counselor at a suicide crisis center near you.
