Behavioral Health, COVID-19 and Your Well-Being
Posted on May 22, 2020
Are you feeling extra stressed, anxious or sad these days? You are not alone. Many Americans are having mental health issues, but these are not a sign of weakness. Stressful or traumatic events, as well as brain chemistry and genetics, can contribute to mental health illness and disorders.
The uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and stay-at-home orders can be considered stressful events. While it’s normal to feel uneasy or stressed by the situation, some older adults may find it difficult to feel well again mentally.
If you find yourself having trouble adjusting, dealing with persistent anxiety, or feeling depressed or hopeless much of the time, know that there is help. These are medical conditions and are treatable.
As a Health New England member, you have behavioral health coverage, which includes mental health, depression and substance use disorder services.
You have several options for getting the help you need:
- Call your Primary Care Provider: Your doctor can talk to you about what you are experiencing and what care and treatment options are available to you.
- Talk with a Health New England Care Manager: Our Care Management team is available to help you access your benefits and coordinate services for you. Please call (800) 842-4464 or (413) 787-4000, ext. 3940, Monday—Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Find a Behavioral Health Provider: Go to healthnewengland.org/medicare and click “Find a Doctor” at the top of the page to search online for a provider.
- Call our Member Services Team: For assistance finding a behavioral health provider, call (413) 787-0010 or (877) 443-3314 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (October 1–March 31: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week).
National Support Hotlines
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: The Lifeline provides 24-hour, toll-free, and confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Support is available in English and Spanish.
- Disaster Distress Hotline: People affected by any disaster or tragedy can call this helpline, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to receive immediate counseling. Call 1-800-985-5990.
- Veterans Crisis Line: This helpline is a free, confidential resource for Veterans of all ages and circumstances. Call 1-800-273-8255, press “1”; or text 838255 to connect with 24/7 support.
Sources: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/older-adults-and-mental-health/index.shtml, https://www.mentalhealth.gov/, and https://www.cdc.gov/aging/mentalhealth/depression.htm
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