More than one in five adults is affected by mental illness each year. But those are just the documented numbers. Experts think that number is much higher, with many cases of mental health going unreported.
May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month to increase awareness about the role mental health plays in our overall health and wellbeing. It’s a great time for you to learn more about different conditions and review the programs and resources available through your TRS health plan.
Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are the two most common mental health conditions, and they often go untreated. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:
feeling sad, empty or hopeless
excessive worrying or fear
increased irritability or anger
feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless
lacking interest in favorite hobbies and social activities
low energy or increased fatigue
changes in sleeping or eating habits, sex drive, weight or appetite
overuse of alcohol or drugs
thoughts of death or suicide attempts
aches or pains that have no apparent physical cause or that don't get better with treatment
Women might also have symptoms of depression because of hormone changes. If you're experiencing any of the above related to a condition like perimenopause or menopause, it's a good idea to make an appointment with your Primary Care Provider or OB/GYN.
Anxiety can share similar symptoms with depression but may also include:
nervousness or restlessness
sensing impending doom or danger
rapid breathing or increased heart rate
sweating or shaking
gastrointestinal issues
With your TRS health plan, you have help for other mental health conditions including:
alcohol or drug misuse
eating disorders
stress
and more
Caring for Someone With a Mental Health Condition
Family and friends don't always open up about their mental health. This can make it hard to know how and when to help them. Start by:
showing them you care
reminding them they have resources to help
offering to help with everyday tasks
involving them in your plans
showing empathy and compassion
educating yourself and others about mental health issues
Taking Care of Your Mental Health
There are things you can do to naturally help with your mental health:
Be active: 30 minutes of exercise a day, like walking, can do wonders for your mental health.
Improve your diet: Eating healthy, staying hydrated and limiting caffeine and alcohol can boost your mood and help you stay focused and energetic throughout the day.
Prioritize sleep: Sleep is the brain’s way of resetting, so make sure you’re getting enough!
Relax: Meditation, yoga and other relaxing activities can calm the brain and have been proven to positively affect mental health.
When you need more help, your TRS health plan is there for you. If you're having a mental health crisis, 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.
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.
Resources for TRS-Active Care and TRS-Care Standard
Provider Finder®
Search for an in-network mental health provider by location, gender, specialty and more.
Teladoc™
Make a virtual mental health appointment for nonemergency mental health conditions with a licensed therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist for yourself or your covered dependents 13 and over. All TRS-ActiveCare Primary and TRS-ActiveCare Primary+ participants pay $0 for mental health appointments.
Headway
Connect with an in-network mental health provider quickly and easily. You can even get same-day matching with providers who have openings within 48 hours.
Mental Health Personal Health Guide (PHG)
Get real-time help from specially trained PHGs who can help you find a provider or get help in a crisis. Be sure to request mental health help when you call 1-866-355-5999, available 24/7.
Well onTarget®
Get one-on-one coaching for stress management and post-partum care.
Digital Mental Health Resources
You also have anytime, anywhere $0 digital mental health tools.
Resources for TRS-Care Medicare
Mental and Behavioral Health Resources
Ongoing mental health support with Optum® Behavioral Health
Resources through our Health and Wellness experience
To learn more, call 1-866-347-9507, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT Monday–Friday or visit the Health & Wellness page on your UnitedHealthcare member website by signing in or registering at retiree.uhc.com/TRS-CareMA.
Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare
This program is here to help keep your mind, body and social life active. With simple resources, tools, events and personalized support, Let’s Move helps you explore ways to eat well, stay connected and be financially, physically and mentally fit — all at no additional cost to you.
To explore, visit letsmovebyuhc.com through your member website.
Virtual Events
You can also participate in live, virtual events to learn how to cook healthy meals, be physically active, and explore other wellness topics by visiting the events page.