Are you feeling lost and hopeless trying to finance your mental health or substance abuse treatment? It is not uncommon to feel frustrated and overwhelmed by the financial weight that accessing treatment can bring. When you are seeking mental health or addiction treatment, maneuvering through the healthcare system and your insurance plan can be challenging. Below you will find helpful information regarding financing your treatment and recovery, offering hope that is so desperately needed. If you are suffering and need urgent care, time can be of the essence. Acute situations like suicide attempts and overdoses demand immediate care and in these situations, finances are not a factor and treatment must be received immediately. This article is designed for someone with time to plan and prepare for their treatment and recovery. This offers a hopeful outlook on the future by allowing you to feel the weightlessness of not drowning in debt.
Below is a list of ideas to help gain financial assistance when it comes to mental health and addiction treatment. With a little bit of time and effort, a person may be able to help themselves with funding when their insurance plan falls short. First, let’s take a look at why some insurance plans do not carry their weight when it comes to mental health and addiction services. Also, we will look at other ways you may be able to find financial help with your mental health or addiction treatment.
Insurance Falling Short
Let’s first start by saying, that if you have time, find an insurance company that treats mental health and addiction like the diseases they are—partner with a company that takes these issues as seriously as they should be taken. You can look for an insurance provider that has plenty of in-network providers for the treatment you may need. Also, steer away from companies that have extreme criteria to qualify for coverage. If you cannot choose your own plan or are limited by the cost of premiums, learn how to file an appeal if coverage is denied or a parity complaint if necessary.
Employee Assistance Programs
Employee Assistance Programs often include mental health and addiction counseling services. These services are usually confidential and free of charge. If you have a job, you can check with the human resource department to see if your company offers this type of program. They can provide you with short-term support and guidance until you are able to figure out a long-term solution. These programs can also connect you with additional resources and treatment options.
Grants and Scholarships
There are many foundations and non-profit organizations that offer grants and scholarships to individuals seeking treatment for mental health and addiction. This money can be used to cover the cost of treatment programs, therapy sessions, and medications. It is simple to go online and research organizations that offer financial assistance. You may be able to find programs that are for your specific geographic location or even your specific needs. The application process for these scholarships and grants can be competitive so be sure to provide as many details about your situation and why you are in need of the assistance.
Loans and Financing Options
There are some treatment and recovery centers that offer financing options or payment plans. These plans allow you to pay for services over time. Although we understand taking on the weight of debt is not ideal, living with mental health disorders or addiction can be so much more costly. Additionally, you may consider looking into personal loans. If taking out a loan be sure to compare interest rates and terms to find the most affordable option for your financial situation.
Crowdfunding
In today’s social media society, crowdfunding platforms have become extremely popular tools for raising money. These platforms can be used to raise money for medical expenses, which include mental health and addiction treatment. Something as simple as sharing your story with friends and family can spread across their social network and help cover the cost of your treatment. It may be difficult to ask for help and share your story publicly, but remember, many have found success through crowdfunding. You never know who you might help by being courageous enough to share your story and humbling yourself enough to ask for help.
State-Based Treatment Programs
If you do not have insurance or can not afford the cost of mental health or addiction treatment, your state may offer a program specifically designed for those who cannot afford treatment. The state-based programs can provide free or lower-cost treatment services such as counseling, detoxification, and residential treatment. You can contact your local health department or mental health agency to see what’s available in your state. They can also provide you with information about eligibility requirements and how to apply for the programs. Having insurance and the ability to have a choice in your treatment is optimal but these programs offer an alternative until you are in a better situation.
Faith-Based Treatment Programs
Faith-based programs are sometimes offered by local religious organizations or faith-based charities which you can research for your specific location. These programs often provide treatment programs for mental health and addiction recovery that integrate spiritual guidance with traditional therapy. Typically these programs are free or offered at a reduced cost, making them a financially more accessible option for those without insurance. Again, these programs are an option for those who need an alternative to insurance coverage. Ultimately, the ability to choose your own treatment is ideal but if you are not in the position to do so, these faith-based programs offer hope for those sinking from the weight of mental health or addiction issues.
Embracing Hope: Funding your Future
As you can see, there is hope. No matter your financial situation and regardless of your current insurance (or lack of), there are many avenues to finding help. Although treatment without insurance can be challenging, the relief that is offered and the hope of a future free from addiction and mental health issues is well worth the effort. From insurance shopping to crowdfunding, grants and scholarships to loans and financing, you can have a future that is free from the weight of mental illness or substance abuse. Taking the first step towards recovery is a courageous decision and with persistence, success can be achieved. If you are looking for Aetna addiction treatment centers in Utah, Diamond Recovery Center is an in-network provider that can help you on your way to recovery. If you are not covered by Aetna, we are still able to offer compassionate care and guidance to a bright and healthy future. Your hope for the future is attainable, use these tools to find the funding you need to get help today.
