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6 Tips For Free Or Low-Cost Mental Health Care 6-tips-people-who-cant-afford-mental-health-care

6 Tips For People Who Can't Afford Mental Health Care

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From hotlines and MusiCares to free clinics and telehealth services, try these less expensive ways to get mental health care services
Tim McPhate
MusiCares
May 17, 2018 - 4:48 pm

With the subject of health care, it's the pervasive elephant in the room: "I don't have insurance, but I need health care." Or maybe someone does have insurance and the issue is not being able to afford the typical high costs associated with health care.

Unfortunately, this conundrum also extends to mental health services. According to Mental Health America, 43 percent of people with mental health problems are more likely to have no insurance or to be on public insurance. And nearly 60 percent of adults struggling with a mental illness in 2017 did not receive treatment in the previous year.

The biggest barrier for these individuals? It's simple. They aren't able to pay for treatment, due to either high costs or inadequate insurance coverage.

However, there is a silver lining. For those individuals struggling with a mental illness who may not be able to pay for the higher costs associated with health care, there are options to find affordable — and sometimes free — counseling and other mental health care services. And it's actually "easier than you think," according to Alice Sanderlin, LPC-MHSP.

Instead of procrastinating or winding up in debt over pricey medical bills, try these six tips to procure affordable mental health care services.

1. Hotlines

When looking for a place to start for help, making a call can make all the difference. There are free hotlines spanning the mental health-related areas of depression, schizophrenia, suicide prevention, anxiety, and more. As a matter of fact, the National Alliance of Mental Illness has curated a listing of 25 hotline resources. And a Google search will yield even more results.

2. Employee Assistance Programs

Patients who are currently employed should inquire with their employer regarding Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services. An EAP is a work-based intervention program designed to identify and assist employees in resolving personal problems that may be adversely affecting the employee's performance. "These EAP services are often low cost or no cost for those covered by such programs," says Tennessee-based Frances Lea Perkins, LPC/MHSP. "Patients can also access a list of mental health providers in the community who are in-network with their insurance who can sometimes be seen for the cost of an office visit copay. Many counseling centers have staff who may offer sliding scale fees for those who qualify and are happy to discuss these options with potential patients."

3. Free Clinics & Community Mental Health Centers

Free mental health clinics are a viable option for those who do not have health insurance. You can find a free clinic in your area via the Partnership for Prescription Assitance website or through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources. The NAMI can also provide information on where to find treatment or mental health care in your area.  You may call them toll-free at 1-800-950-NAMI.

Additionally, community mental health centers are potential resources that provide free or low-cost therapy options and services. You can find a center through the Department of Human Services at your state's government website. And private nonprofit organizations such as the YMCA offers low-cost/sliding scale behavioral health and family services for children and adults.

Jacoby Shaddix quote for Mental Health Awareness Month 2018
Music Saved My Life: 2018 Mental Health Awareness Month

4. Find A Doctor … Online

Telehealth — the marriage of telecommunications technology and health care — is emerging as a legitimate option for someone seeking help with a mental illness, and it could save you a bundle of money. Telehealth doctors can diagnose, recommend treatment and even prescribe medication, if necessary. Apps such as Teladoc allows you to browse health care professionals at a fraction of the cost of a trip to the clinic. There's even therapy via text message available through portals such as Talkspace. Patients can also try group therapy via NAMI AIR, a free app that connects you with a community of people living with mental health conditions and their caregivers.

5. Seek Spiritual Advisors Or Community Leaders

For some seeking mental health care, religion and spirituality can play a big part in the healing process. If you're involved with an organized religious group, it's possible to find the help you need within your community circle. Inquire with your church about free support groups or retreats where you can connect with others in your situation. And try a conversation with your pastor or other leaders in the community who might offer free counseling.

6. MusiCares

If you're reading this, chances are you are a musician or work in the music community. Last but certainly not least there is MusiCares. MusiCares is a safety net for musicians, providing a range of programs and services for music people, including mental health assistance and referrals. If you are part of the music community and you require assistance for a mental health-related issue, contact MusiCares toll-free at 1.800.687.4227 (West), 1.877.626.2748 (South) or 1.877.303.6962 (East).

More Mental Health: What You Need To Know About Adolescent Mental Health

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The Success Of Mental Health Treatment mental-health-awareness-month-yes-mental-health-treatment-works

Mental Health Awareness Month: Yes, Mental Health Treatment Works

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As we close Mental Health Awareness Month this May, survey how treatment for mental illness can lead to hope and recovery
Renée Fabian
MusiCares
May 31, 2018 - 4:50 pm

Many times we tend to focus on the devastating impacts of mental illness — one in five U.S. citizens lives with a mental illness but more than 55 percent don't receive treatment in any given year. Often this focus helps expand on the breadth of the issue and initiates momentum to urge public officials to take action and to help organizations hone their services accordingly. But as we close Mental Health Awareness Month this May, it's also important to remember there's hope.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 70 to 90 percent of those who have a mental illness experience improvement with treatment, including a reduction in symptoms and a better quality of life. This improvement can be accomplished through psychotherapy, medications or a combination of the two.

However, before a course of treatment can be successful, the first step is to know when to reach out for help.

As cited by the American Psychiatric Association, potential symptoms that could indicate someone is experiencing mental illness include withdrawal and isolation, having trouble at school or work, issues with concentration, a sense of having a "short fuse," apathy, feeling disconnected, persistent anxiety, unusual changes in behavior, mood or even habits such as sleeping and eating. Also be on the lookout for signs of an emergency, such as suicidal ideation, which requires immediate intervention.

"Sometimes the signs are obvious but at other times, something may feel slightly off and you can't figure out what it is," wrote psychologist David Sack in Psychology Today. "Contrary to popular misconception, you don't have to be 'crazy,' desperate or on the brink of a meltdown to go to therapy."

As Sack alludes to, the time to get help may be, perhaps surprisingly, before there is even anything noticeably wrong — preventative mental health care, if you will.

"I know this sounds strange, but I believe the best time to consider treatment is when things are going well," advises counselor Al Andrews, founder and executive director of Porter's Call. "Ninety-nine percent of the individuals who come into my office, arrive because they have a problem. … The Titanic has hit the iceberg and the ship is taking on water. ... What if people sought treatment when they heard there might be icebergs in the water ahead? The sooner that can be explored, the better that individual has to live a healthier life."

Jacoby Shaddix quote for Mental Health Awareness Month 2018
Music Saved My Life: 2018 Mental Health Awareness Month

If you're ready to seek out mental health resources, there are several places you can start. Try therapist directories such as the one at Psychology Today or through your insurance provider. Mental health helplines can also be a great source of local mental health information for all income levels. Reach out to friends for possible referrals, or if you're a musician or music industry professional, call MusiCares to talk about what resources may be available.

Regardless, never be afraid to reach out for support, whether you're not feeling like yourself or you want to make sure your mind stays in tip-top shape. Treatment for mental health is available, and when people stick with it, it's effective. There's hope for everyone struggling with their mental health, including you.

"I was struggling with anxiety that I never had before following the passing of my father and a recent breakup. I couldn't get on a flight, barely get on stage and my life felt like it was crumbling apart," said a MusiCares client. "My manager called MusiCares and they helped me with a psych evaluation, medication and psychotherapy. I'm beginning to feel better and know it's a long road but finally have hope when I didn't before."

6 Tips For People Who Can't Afford Mental Health Care
 

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Photo: Florian Gaertner/Photothek via Getty Images

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Suicide Prevention: Options For Help & Support suicide-prevention-understanding-facts-and-finding-support

Suicide Prevention: Understanding The Facts And Finding Support

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Talking about depression and learning about the warning signs of various mental health issues can make all the difference in saving someone's life
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
May 24, 2018 - 1:52 pm

We may never know why some of our generations' brightest creative minds choose to take their own lives, but we do know that suicidal thoughts affect a wide range of people, not just those dealing with the pressures of stardom. For the sake of anyone who has succumbed to the most insurmountable mental anguish, we must look at suicide as what it is: a preventable outcome of a treatable illness.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

Mental health issues leading to suicidal thoughts can be very complex to understand from both internal and external perspectives. After all, the mind is such a personal territory. But even in the shadow of darkness suicide casts on our culture, we can make a difference by shining a light on tangible resources to overcome depression and suicidality.

First, it is important to understand the types of mental illnesses that can potentially lead to suicide deaths.

"Some of the most commons mental health diagnosis associated with suicide deaths are mood disorders like depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic disorder, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and substance abuse disorders," says Becky Stoll, LCSW, vice president of crisis & disaster management at Centerstone, a MusiCares partner. "Another common issue associated with suicide is having chronic physical pain." 

Unfortunately, suicide is a global issue. A 2015 study showed suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. alone, the third leading cause of death for people aged 10–14 and the second leading cause of death for people aged 15–24. In the state of Tennessee alone, one person between the ages of 10–24 is lost to suicide every four days, according to statistics provided by Scott Ridgway, executive director of the Tennessee Suicide Prevention Network. The Tennessee Department of Health's Office of Health Statistics reported there were 1,110 recorded suicide deaths in Tennessee in 2016, a 4 percent increase from the prior year.

These numbers are, and should be, shocking. We've seen some of our music heroes' names in the news — Chris Cornell, Chester Bennington, Avicii — and these statistics prove the problem reaches far beyond the headlines.

While there is no universal solution for mental health issues, there are many options for finding support. It all starts with talking.

"The more we talk about it, everyone can do something. If you have had a mental health problem, talk about it," says clinical psychologist Dr. Joanne Barron. "Help take the stigma away from it."

Speaking of talking, there is a big misconception that people who speak about contemplating suicide are only seeking attention, which is not at all accurate.

"In fact, we know people who end up dying by suicide have often spoken about it with others and given other warning signs," says Stoll. " If someone you know feels comfortable enough to broach the subject of their suicidal thoughts with you then you must take them seriously."

As far as warning signs, being able to spot one could make the difference in saving someone's life.

"Knowing the warning signs of suicidal behavior is key to helping those around us get the assistance they need," says Stoll. "These include talking about wanting to die or not be around anymore — sometimes this can be vague so it is important to ask clarifying questions — making plans for how to kill one's self, securing the means to carry out this plan, giving away possessions, expressing feelings of being a burden to others, withdrawing and being isolative, and expressing hopelessness."     

But where can one turn? Where can they start? One option is to confide in friends or family members to ask for help and support. For many people suffering from depression, this first step can be the hardest, but it can also be the most beneficial.

"Some of the loneliest times in my life have been in rooms full of thousands of people because not one of them knew what was going on inside me," says guitarist Dave Navarro. "Rarely do we pick up the phone at 3 a.m. after a gig and ask for help. … The real challenge is letting people know that it is a great strength to reach out for support,"

Of course, not everyone has a support system in his or her life to turn to. Another valuable option for seeking support can be found in a recent popular song. The GRAMMY-nominated "1-800-273-8255" was released in 2017 by rapper Logic. Featuring Khalid and Alessia Cara, the song addresses head on the struggles of depression and the importance of reaching out for support, which was not an easy topic for Logic to broach in his writing because he himself has suffered from anxiety and depression.

Logic's Suicide Prevention With "1-800-273-8255"

"I was so scared for so long to say that because society has lead me to believe that my anxiety is stupid and shouldn't be talked about, or that suicide, 'Who cares, who's weak enough to kill themselves?' Which is the most terrible, disgusting, ugly thing somebody can say," says Logic. "That's why I decided to write about these topics."

Logic's efforts with "1-800-273-8255" to raise awareness of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline worked. After performing the song on MTV's VMAs, call traffic increased by 50 percent.

"None of us are alone," said GRAMMY-nominated artist Kesha, who introduced the performance. "It takes great courage to show the vulnerable side of being human and we all have that vulnerable side. Whatever you are going through, however dark it may seem, there is an undeniable truth and strength in the fact that you are not alone."

Kesha's words ring true.

"There are very effective treatments today for mental health disorders," says Stoll. "If someone is feeling suicidal they can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline from anywhere in the country. Someone is always there to assist. They can also text the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741."

Finally, music people in need of support can turn to MusiCares. Whether dealing with substance abuse, addiction recovery, financial hardship, or mental health issues, MusiCares is here to help. From online resources such as this recent list of tips for free or low-cost mental health care to over-the-phone support, MusiCares is a safety net for musicians, providing mental health assistance and referrals.

If you are part of the music community and you require assistance for a mental health-related issue, contact MusiCares toll-free at 1.800.687.4227 (West), 1.877.626.2748 (South) or 1.877.303.6962 (East).

Learn More About MusiCares, The Recording Academy's Health And Human Services Charity

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Watch Music Business & Family: Fatherhood & Music music-business-family-fatherhood-music-dives-deep-balancing-kids-career-pandemic

Music Business & Family: Fatherhood & Music Dives Deep Into Balancing Kids, Career & A Pandemic

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Six working dads dive deep into the joys and challenges of fatherhood, balancing career and childcare responsibilities with a partner
Ana Monroy Yglesias
Membership
Nov 12, 2020 - 12:53 pm

The Music Business & Family: Fatherhood & Music panel recently brought together music professionals navigating fatherhood during the pandemic for an insightful, honest conversation about balancing life as a working father in the music industry. 

The heartfelt virtual discussion, moderated by Fake Shore Drive music blog creator Andrew Barber, featured five fellow awesome dads: clinical psychologist Dr. James Ballard III, Ph.D., producer/multi-instrumentalist and Co-Founder of BASSic Black Entertainment Adam Blackstone, Chicago rapper and mental health advocate G Herbo, songwriter/producer Billy Mann, and DMV rapper/producer Oddisee. The panel was presented by the Recording Academy's Chicago, New York, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia Chapters, in partnership with MusiCares,

Watch Music Business & Family: Fatherhood & Music

Related: Watch: Music Business & Family: Motherhood & Music Brings Together Powerhouse Moms Working In Music

The panelists dove deep into the joys and challenges of fatherhood, balancing career and childcare responsibilities with their partner, and how much more work quarantine has left them all with. Watch the full conversation above. 

The conversation is part of a two-part series, preceded by Music Business & Family: Motherhood & Music.

G Herbo Talks 'PTSD' And The Importance Of Mental Health: "People Need To Treat Mental Health More Seriously"

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MusiCares Launches Wellness In Music Survey musicares-launches-new-first-its-kind-wellness-music-survey

MusiCares Launches New, First-Of-Its Kind Wellness In Music Survey

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This new annual commitment will assess the music community’s mental health and wellness to better inform MusiCares of the needs facing their clients
MusiCares
Oct 10, 2020 - 9:00 am

As we settle into month seven of the global pandemic, MusiCares is asking music professionals with 5+ years of experience to share their honest realities, especially as it relates to their overall mental and physical health and wellness. The survey will be live from Oct. 10, which is also #WorldMentalHealthDay, to Nov. 9, 2020. 

When the pandemic swept the nation in March, MusiCares established MusiCares COVID-19 Relief to help music people impacted by the pandemic and facing crisis due to loss of work, medical diagnosis, threat of eviction, and other personal emergencies.  The relief efforts have helped more than 19,000 music industry artists and professionals - making this the most recipients assisted  for any single relief effort in MusiCares’ history.

This new, first-of-its-kind survey is an extension of the relief response to better understand the health and wellness of the music community after many months in a pandemic, and on the long-term, to monitor trends and go deeper in their service.  

The survey results will be released in early 2021.

Inside VAULT Productions' Real-Time Doc On Electronic Music's Evolution During The Pandemic

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Some of the content on this site expresses viewpoints and opinions that are not those of the Recording Academy and its Affiliates. Responsibility for the accuracy of information provided in stories not written by or specifically prepared for the Academy and its Affiliates lies with the story's original source or writer. Content on this site does not reflect an endorsement or recommendation of any artist or music by the Recording Academy and its Affiliates.