Mental Health Services Under Medicare
Did you know that mental health in the 65+ demographic is a growing public health issue? The National Institute of Mental Health reports that over 60% of Americans will have a major depressive episode in their lifetime. Additionally, men over age 75 have the highest suicide rates in the country. Fortunately, Medicare covers a variety of mental health options to help address this serious health crisis. Today, we’re going to explore mental health issues seniors face and what options Medicare offers to help you.
If you or a loved need immediate assistance, please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. Professionals are available 24/7 to help you.
Depression is not a normal part of aging
Depression is not a part of growing older; it is a serious mental health condition. Lifestyle changes, aging and age-related disability are all causes of depression in seniors. Untreated depression can negatively impact your overall health and lead to serious mental health crises. Knowing the warning signs of depression can help you recognize that you may need help.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, warning signs of depression may include:
Noticeable changes in mood, energy level or appetite
Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless or on edge
Increased worry or feeling stressed
Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
Unusual thinking or behaviors that concern other people
Anger, irritability or aggressiveness
Sadness or hopelessness
Suicidal thoughts
Does Medicare Cover Mental Health
Medicare Part A
Medicare Part A covers hospital and emergency care. As such, Part A also covers inpatient mental health interventions for those who need it. This type of service is reserved for those who need immediate assistance because their safety is called into question. In-patient care at a mental health facility covers your room, meals, nursing care, mental health treatment and other related services. To learn more about Part A inpatient coverage, visit the Medicare website.
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B covers outpatient care, which is the type of mental health assistance most seniors will use. Some examples of that are mental health counseling by a licensed professional or psychiatric care. There are several kinds of mental health professionals, each with their own specialty. To know what kind you need, it is important to understand the differences between practitioners.
- Psychiatry works with the diagnosis and medical treatment of mood disorders.
- Psychology focuses on the brain and helping those with conditions that affect behavior and cognition.
- Therapists work with patients to address the causes of issues and to work through them.
- Social workers work with patients to address the factors affecting their mental health and how to adjust them to improve circumstances.
To know what kind of care you need, you can talk with your primary care physician for a referral. You can also look at your plan information to find a provider within your network. It is worth noting that Medicare coverage leans clinical when it comes to mental health, so reviewing your options can help you find a care style that fits your needs.
Medicare Part D drug plans
Medicare Part D helps cover prescription costs, including mental health medications. Mental health medications include anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medications and medications that help regulate various mental health conditions. These medications help balance mental chemicals in the same way a vitamin supplement helps you get sufficient vitamin levels. As each Part D plan is different, it is important to review your plan to make sure your medications are covered by your plan.
You are not alone: resources for mental health
Mental health once had a stigmatization, but not anymore. Nowadays, we have realized that ignoring mental health can have serious consequences. Ignoring depression does not make it go away, it makes it worse. If you are needing mental healthcare, there are resources for you.
No matter what kind of Medicare plan you have, you will be able to find mental health professionals to help you feel better. Review your plan for providers or speak with your doctor for a referral. Medicare also has a booklet with additional information about mental health coverage options that can be found here.
If you are feeling like you need immediate intervention, do not wait for an appointment with your doctor. If you are in crisis, you can call or text 988 or visit Lifeline, a 24/7 resource for you or a loved one to speak with a mental health professional. If you need immediate medical care, call 911.
You are not alone! Mental health is an invisible condition, but people all around you are going through similar struggles. You are not “broken” or unworthy of love and support. Please find mental health assistance if you are ever in doubt that you matter or that people care about you.
PlanEnroll helps seniors explore these extended options and the mental health coverages within them to give seniors the peace of mind they need about getting the mental health help they deserve.
You shouldn’t be limited in your mental health services based only on what Medicare will cover! Let us help you get the coverage you need so you can get the help you deserve.
The content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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