Don’t Ignore the Signs – Mental Health Care

Why Do We Ignore the Signs?

So many of us ignore the signs of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. We push through because:

• we figure we'll feel better tomorrow
• we don't feel like we have time to slow down
• we're too busy taking care of everyone else
• or we're embarrassed and don't want to admit we're having mental health issues

The Staggering Numbers

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 40% of U.S. adults said they were struggling with mental health or substance abuse issues in 2020. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were exceptionally high.

Here's another staggering number: The average delay between when mental health issues begin and when people finally get treatment is 11 years! That's a long time to suffer needlessly.

Your Mental Health Matters

Treating a mental disorder is just as important as treating a physical ailment. Whether you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or a different mental health condition, there’s strength in seeking treatment and making your mental health a priority.

• If you're having a mental health crisis, you should seek help right away.
• If you're in danger of hurting yourself or someone else, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, anytime, day or night.
• You can also call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) national helpline 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for mental health and substance abuse treatment referrals and information.

TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard Participants

• You can find an in-network therapist or other mental health provider by calling a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) Personal Health Guide at 1-866-355-5999, 24 hours a day, seven days a week or using the BCBSTX app. You can also search for an in-network provider through the TRS-ActiveCare Provider Finder Search tool or the TRS-Care Standard Provider Search tool.
• You and your 18 or older covered dependents can receive confidential care from a psychiatrist, licensed therapist or psychologist through TRS Virtual Health for TRS-ActiveCare powered by Teladoc or TRS Virtual Health for TRS-Care Standard powered by Teladoc from the comfort of your home. Services are available only through video conference via a webcam enabled device such as a computer, smart phone or tablet.
• The Well onTarget portal offers several self-management programs that can help improve your mental health including the Manage Your Stress program, Improve Your Sleep program and Enhance Your Physical Activity program.
• The BCBSTX website for your plan has a list of comprehensive resources and tips for mental health wellness. Visit your TRS-ActiveCare Mental Health or TRS-Care Standard Mental Health site for more details.

TRS-Care Medicare Advantage Participants

• Find an in-network mental health professional through the UnitedHealthcare provider search tool. To access:
• Follow the link to retiree.uhc.com/trs-carema.
• Scroll to the bottom of the page under “How do I find a provider” and click on “Find a provider.”
• A new browser will open to notify you that you’re leaving UHCRetiree.com, click “Proceed.”
• You can also meet virtually with a mental health professional by phone or secure online video sessions through TRS Virtual Health powered by Doctor on Demand and AmWell.