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Mental Health Awareness Month
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The Truth About Adults With Mental Illness

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A staggering number of adults who struggle with mental illness don't receive treatment; but help is available
Brian Haack
MusiCares
May 10, 2018 - 6:48 pm

Thankfully, global perceptions of mental illness, and the associated stigma against seeking or receiving mental health, are beginning to show signs of real change in recent years.

Unfortunately, those changes are not coming quickly enough.

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

According to Mental Health America, a leading community-based no-profit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all Americans, nearly 60 percent of adults struggling with a mental illness in 2017 did not receive treatment in the previous year.

Furthermore, according to the MHA's 2017 study "The State Of Mental Health In America," more than 18 percent of all adults struggle with mental health problems annually. That's equivalent to approximately 44 million Americans.

That means that roughly 27 million Americans with a mental health issue did not receive treatment. These figures are as staggering as they are heartbreaking.

The causes for this treatment gap are, of course, varied, and happily this percentage of untreated adults is on a downward trend — albeit slight — dropping by roughly 5 percent since 2011.

But unlike the barriers to treatment faced by previous generations, the chief culprit contributing to the treatment gap is not a lack of desire to receive treatment or a lack of access to treatment. Even in Maine, the state the MHA found to have the best level of access, 41.4 percent of adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment.

A lack of insurance plays perhaps the largest role, though the percentages vary from state to state from as low as 3.3 percent in Massachusetts to as high as 23.8 percent in South Carolina.  Across the board, 14.7 percent of adults with a mental illness are uninsured — roughly 6.3 million Americans.

While this tangled web undoubtedly seems complicated, the good news is there are options even for those without insurance. Whether looking into affordable health care, seeking a clinic or community health center, or consulting a local support group or local spiritual leader, help is attainable. And it's actually "easier than you think," according to Alice Sanderlin, LPC-MHSP.

"Start by asking your doctor or clergy for referrals to a mental health agency or provider. Insurance companies also offer provider lists," says Sanderlin. "Therapy directories such as GoodTherapy.org or Psychology Today can help locate therapists in your location who specialize in various fields. Online therapy services (check for HIPAA compliance) offer messaging, video, and chat services with flexible hours."

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

For music creators, this issue of gaining physical and financial access to mental healthcare can often be compounded by a lack of insurance. If you or a music professional you know are struggling with accessing of affording treatment, MusiCares can help provide financial and institutional assistance.

In the face of the mental health epidemic that we are facing, it is critical that we continue working toward integrating behavioral and mental health screening tools and education into traditional systems of physical healthcare so the concerns of individuals living with mental health issues can be identified and addressed.

"Shame and fear can sometimes hold us prisoner," says Sanderlin. "The fear of being labeled or stigmatized can keep people from reaching out for help. We may be telling ourselves, 'I should be able to handle this myself.' Asking for help is sometimes the hardest part — just ask."

What You Need To Know About Adolescent Mental Health

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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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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 Importance Of Therapy In Coping With PTSD

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Read a touching testimonial from a MusiCares client who has battled PTSD
Brian Haack
MusiCares
May 8, 2018 - 2:52 pm

The shooting in Las Vegas at the Route 91 Music Festival on Oct. 1, 2017, shook the music community.

As with any such profoundly tragic disaster, the survivors who are left to pick up the pieces can often find themselves feeling set adrift. Their world has been forever changed; their sense of safety and security can feel shattered.

Oftentimes, while first responders on the scene are able to treat or triage the immediate physical injuries, a wider ripple of less obvious symptoms can tragically be left untreated.  n some cases, survivors may only feel shock during the immediate aftermath, only to find symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder manifest themselves months, or even years, later.

For music people affected by such an intensely upsetting near-death experience, and indeed for music creators affected by any aspect the full spectrum of mental health concerns, whether stemming from a situational cause or developmental scenario, MusiCares is committed to helping ensure that access to mental health treatment can be made available, even to those with little or no health insurance or other financial concerns.

Read what one recent client has to say about the help they were able to receive thanks to MusiCares:

"After the Vegas shootings I experienced nightmares and severe anxiety.  It’s not like I could go out and talk to friends about this experience, because none of them could relate.  I love what I do professionally and I knew in order to keep working in the music industry, I’d have to get some help. The trauma therapy that I have been receiving thanks to MusiCares, has been a lifesaver."

What You Need To Know About Adolescent Mental Health

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News

What You Need To Know About Adolescent Mental Health

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This Mental Health Awareness Month, take a closer look at mental illness warning signs in young people and what you can do to help
Renée Fabian
MusiCares
May 3, 2018 - 2:44 pm

A sullen teenager slams the door in your face for the 10th time this week. An energetic fifth grader bounces off the walls of the classroom, a bundle of energy that won't be contained. Your 12-year-old child is afraid of the dark and performs a nightly ritual to ward off the "monsters."

Dave Navarro's Powerful Message Of Hope

These scenarios are likely to pop up in the household of concerned parents. The questions for many, however, are which behaviors represent typical adolescence and normal development, and which may be caused by mental illness?

It's not always so easy to tell, which begs another question: Where should a parent start?

"Any time that a child or adolescent's behavior shows a dramatic change, primarily with things like isolating from friends and family, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, and any significant changes in their usual activities, like things that they used to really enjoy they don't enjoy now," that's when to consider getting a child extra help advises Texas-based psychotherapist Margery Boucher.

Parents should think twice if a child is isolating away from friends as opposed to withdrawing from family to spend time with peers. Other warning signs to watch out for are being secretive versus wanting more privacy or losing interest in all activities instead of evolving from childhood interests to teenage activities. Also, be on the lookout for extremes, even when they might seem to be unlikely causes for concern.

"They used to never want to hang out with friends and now all the sudden that's all they want to do, which might seem counterintuitive," Boucher says. "But sometimes if there is drug behavior … suddenly they'll want to hang out with a certain group they've never wanted to be around before."

While these differences in behavior can be subtle or hard to detect, Boucher says that most parents know their kids and they should trust their gut when questioning a child's behavior. If caregivers have suspicions something more than developmental angst may be going on, it's critical to reach out for professional support because "you just never know what a kid could be going through."

Share your story: notalone.nami.org —— “Dopamine is more than the ‘good feeling’ chemical. It’s also helping regulate my mood, sleep, cognition and behavior. —— As a therapist, I always like to assign challenges to my clients. Here’s one for you: The next time you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, sad, etc., put on an upbeat song, bring your whole attention to the music and lyrics and move (dance, walk, etc.). That’s it. —— If it seems simple, that’s because it is. When we’re having a tough time, we tend to sit and dwell. So, let’s do the opposite. Let’s move and distract. —— And to be clear, I’m not suggesting ‘distracting’ as in ‘avoiding.’ But we often confuse dwelling with problem-solving, and dwelling is actually just focusing on feeling bad, rather than a proactively solving a problem. When my clients report dwelling, I often ask, ‘So, you’ve sat on the couch and dwelled for a few weeks now, and nothing has changed. How about we try something different?’” #mentalhealth #mentalillness #therapy #recovery #stigmafree

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In addition, mental illness in those under the age of 18 isn't uncommon. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20 percent of young people between ages 13–18 live with a mental health condition. For those 14 and older with a mental illness, 50 percent will drop out of high school. And if left untreated, mental illness can be deadly — suicide is the third leading cause of death among 10–24-year-olds.

Mental health for young people is different than adults, from diagnosis through treatment. For this reason, when seeking professional support for a child, look for a specialist through resources such as Psychology Today's therapist network, an insurance provider's directory or by reaching out to MusiCares if you're a music industry professional.

"It's very, very important for parents to make sure that they find a clinician who specializes in diagnosing, assessing and treating children or an adolescent, not just any therapist," Boucher underscores. "Parents need to be informed consumers. … [Don't] be afraid to call a therapist or a psychologist up and ask, 'Hey, can I ask you some questions?' and interview them. That's very important."

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

In the meantime, there are ways parents can help protect a child's mental health, especially in teaching children about emotions.

"Kids often times don't have a label for the feelings they're having and so they don't really know how to express that feeling," Boucher says. Parents can reflect emotions back to kids so they can label and manage feelings in a healthy manner.

"If a kid comes to a parent and they're obviously upset about something, label those feelings for the kids," Boucher explains. "Say, 'Gosh, you're really angry about this.' And then talk to them about that emotion and say, 'It's OK to be angry but it's not OK to slam doors. Let's talk about how to really express your anger.'"

Another great way to support kids' mental health? Activities. Outside playtime, sports, and particularly music and the other arts provide a creative outlet for energy and emotions that keep children's minds healthy.

"[Give] kids avenues for letting out various emotions," Boucher says. "Art is a great thing for anyone to be able to express feelings."

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