It’s a struggle when you don’t have access to regular mental health services, right? Honestly, that’s not the only thing, either. Taking care of our mental health is as important as looking after our physical health. But the thing is, accessing mental health services is easier said than done. Sure, it’s recommended now more than ever to take care of your mental health, but it’s not always that simple though.
One of the biggest things that gets in the way is how expensive it is. Yes, mental health services are all very expensive, and it’s not as simple as taking medicine like it is for your physical health. You need multiple sessions, regular sessions at that. If you’re feeling overwhelmed about how to afford the help you need, you’re not alone. But what can you even do?
If you need it, and you struggle to afford even just one session a month, what other options are there? Well, let’s explore some of the best ways to make mental health services more accessible and affordable.
NHS Services
For those in the UK, this is definitely an option, as the NHS offers a range of mental health services for free. Your GP can refer you to a specialist or recommend local services that can help. These include talking therapies like CBT, counselling, and even more specialised treatments such as music and art therapy. Although there might be waiting times, NHS services are a fantastic first step.
Of course, this is only for those who live in the UK. What about those in the US? Well, if you’re in the US, you have to have health insurance, but not all insurance will cover mental health assistance. Of course, there are some that do, so you’ll need to see what your insurance covers. For example, there’s Aetna in network therapists, so that’s a fantastic option if that’s the insurance that you have.
Employee Assistance Programmes
You might want to see what your employer offers because there are a lot of employers that actually offer Employee Assistance Programmes as part of their benefits package. Some of these EAPs provide confidential counselling services, often at no cost to the employee. If you’re employed, check with your HR department to see if your workplace offers such a scheme. It’s a discreet and effective way to access support.
Charities and Non-Profits
This one often surprises people, but there are numerous charities and non-profit organisations across the UK dedicated to providing mental health support. You might want to look into organisations like Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, and Samaritans since they offer various services.
University Counselling Services
Are you a student? Then you should definitely pay close attention to this one. If you’re a student, most universities offer free counselling services. These services are designed to support students through the unique pressures of academic life.
Sliding Scale Fees
Some private therapists offer sliding scale fees based on your income. This means that the cost of each session is adjusted according to what you can afford. It’s always worth asking therapists if they offer this option. Plus, a lot of them are willing to negotiate with you, too.
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