Tending to mental health as we tend to physical health is a crucial part of overall wellness.
But for some, the only way to get this care is through low-cost or free mental health services.
Are you struggling to cope with financial stress?
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First, take a deep breath.
Then, take a look at our roundup ofresources to help you manage your stress and your money.
Often, a lack of insurance is the reason they cant or dont seek care.
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In Crisis?
Calls to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255) will be routed to 988.
Callers will speak with a trained counselor at a crisis center closest to them.
If that center cant take the call, it will be routed to one of 16 backup centers.
But what if you feel like you need mental health care but youre not in crisis?
You should still seek help, even if its not through 988.
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Chances are, if you cant afford mental health care, you might also qualify for assistance.
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Thats good news for any of us who want to save money on therapy.
Training clinics are usually located near or as part of universities.
Youll attend sessions with a graduate student supervised by a licensed psychologist.
To find one near you, you might browse theAssociation of Psychology Training Clinicsfor member clinics.
Or just search (your city) psychology training clinic.
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Find a center through the Department of Human Services on your states government website.
you’re able to also find services through private nonprofit organizations.
YMCA offers low-cost and sliding scale behavioral health and family services for kids and adults.
Look for mental health services through your local Y.
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Theyre especially helpful if youre in substance abuse recovery or dealing with depression.
These should come at a lower rate you could potentially afford out of pocket.
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5.
Negotiate and Ask for Discounts
You might not realize it, but your medical bills are totally negotiable.
Dont be afraid to lowball here.
This isnt a business deal, so you dont have to worry about making a bad impression.
When you receive a bill for services, dont just provide payment information thatll sink you into debt.
get in touch with the provider to let them know you cant afford it.
If you dont have the cash handy, ask for a payment plan.
Get on it before the bill goes to collections, and ask for a monthly payment you could handle.
Telemedicine doctors can diagnose, recommend treatment and even prescribe medication if necessary.
Or opt for a subscription to a therapy app like Talkspace or BetterHelp.
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Maybe your minister or other community leaders offer free individual or couples counseling or other services.
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Your tuition and fees subsidize them, so you might as well contact them to take advantage!
Lean on these options to provide support when your family cant afford private mental health services.
Maybe youre scrambling after your car broke down.
Or you got a medical bill you werent expecting.
Or inflation has finally pushed your budget over the edge.
You dont need to go it alone.
When money is tight,these resourcescan help you manage unexpected expenses without stress.
Consult the Internet
Going online to self-diagnose your ailments is no replacement for professional diagnosis and treatment.
The helpline itself doesnt offer professional services, but it can help you connect with programs in your area.
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Check Your Employee Benefits
Some companies and government agencies offer something called an employee assistance program.
That could cover some free sessions, among other benefits.
Verify that your sessions will be confidential.
Theyre likely bound by certain confidentiality requirements.
But if you have any concerns about your privacy in the workplace, state those requirements in advance.
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They might offer support groups, access to counseling or resources for LGBTQ-friendly care.
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The collective lets you search for therapists in your area or speak with someone online.
So, you should be able to find the help you need no matter where you live.
Another low-cost or free therapy collective is 7 Cups.
Online listeners help connect those in need with counselors or simply offer the chance to chat.
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The VA also has mental telehealth services and provides counseling services to caregivers and families of veterans.
For instance, chatbots mimic empathy but struggle with the nuances of human interaction, Psychology Today reports.
They can also miss cues and fail to recognize high-risk situations.
There are privacy concerns, too: Your secrets may not be safe.
When it comes to using AI for counseling, be cautious.
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