By John D. Doak
Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner
According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, one in four adults has one or more diagnosable mental disorders. While many of these conditions are common and treatable, it is estimated that nearly half of those diagnosed are not getting the help they need.
But there is hope. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) stands ready to educate you on your mental health insurance coverage. We’re also partnering with Cathy Costello to spread the word about this important issue. Cathy is the widow of former Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Mark Costello. They dealt with their son’s mental illness for more than eight years before he was accused of killing Mark Costello and arrested last August.
Cathy is featured in a new series of public service announcements encouraging Oklahomans to call OID if they need help clarifying mental health insurance coverage. The PSAs will air on TV stations throughout Oklahoma starting this month.
Here are a few tips for navigating mental healthcare.
How Do I Find Help?
If you are employed, check with your human resources department to see if they offer an employee assistance program (EAP). These services generally include short-term counseling for employees and household members. EAPs provide support for a number of issues including substance abuse, emotional distress, major life events, personal relationship issues and more.
There are also many nationally available hotlines if you need to speak with someone immediately. For general mental health questions, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a good place to start. You can reach them at 877-726-4727.
Furthermore, one of the most important things to remember about mental health is that there has never been more variety in the types of treatments available. For example, whereas some people find that attending therapy sessions can prove to be beneficial, others prefer to supplement these types of support with natural remedies and alternative medicines.
For instance, in recent years, more and more people have started to use cannabis products as part of their mental health toolkits. There is plenty of research out there to suggest that marijuana has a number of health-boosting properties and there are ongoing studies that seem to show that this fascinating plant can have a profound impact on the mental health of people living with conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Moreover, it is no secret that cannabis products can be used in more ways than ever before. To elaborate, while some people like to get their cannabis fix by smoking marijuana-infused cigarettes, others prefer to smoke using a dab rig, which is a special type of glass smoking pipe or bong. You can learn more about some of the most popular dab rig makes and models over on the King’s Pipe website.
Accordingly, it is interesting to note that there are plenty of viable alternatives to smoking, such as using a vaping device or using a hookah. Above all, these methods can make for great alternatives for anyone who is lacking rolling papers or simply does not want to roll a joint. For further information check out this useful guide that answers common questions such as ‘what can i roll my weed in?’ and much more.
Ultimately, no matter which route you decide to go down, do not be afraid to reach out to someone if you are struggling. Help is always out there and you should not feel ashamed to speak up about your mental health and wellbeing.
Finding Help if You Have Health Insurance
All insurance plans are required by law to cover mental health and substance abuse services. This includes behavioral health treatment such as psychotherapy and counseling. The plans also include mental and behavioral health inpatient services and substance abuse disorder treatment.
Your insurance company can provide a list of providers in your plan. Your primary care doctor may also be able to refer you to a mental health specialist.
If you have more questions about mental health insurance coverage, call the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 800-522-0071.
Finding Help When Uninsured
Start with your community health center. SAMHSA provides a behavior treatment services locator to help you find one in your area. Other places to look include university clinics and group therapy.
You can also call 211. The free 24-hour phone line can help Oklahomans in every county with information and referrals to community services. Its available seven days a week, 365 days a year.
If you have more questions about mental health insurance coverage, call the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 800-522-0071.
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