It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and asking for mental health support can pose significant challenges. These challenges can come from both internal and external forces, and the significance of their influence will vary. However, everyone has the right to access quality mental health care no matter who they are or where they’re from. Read on and uncover five common barriers people often face when pursuing care and how to overcome them.
1. Stigma
While public conversations and advocacy surrounding mental health have become mainstream, the stigma associated with mental health conditions remains. Exaggerated caricatures of individuals with mental health diagnoses in film, television, and books only add to the problem. Many shy away from expressing their feelings, even though support like therapy, medication, and mental health rehab would help. Mental health stigma might make others look down on those with diagnoses, resulting in fewer people pursuing care.
Help put an end to stigma by elevating the conversation about mental health in your circles. At home, work, and among friends, facilitate conversations about mental health being part of caring for one’s total health. Speak up when others stigmatize mental health conditions and encourage them to use person-first language when discussing specific diagnoses. Be a positive example through your behavior and teach others to be more inclusive and kind.
2. Discrimination
Many mental health conditions are designated as protected classes under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but that doesn’t stop discrimination. A public diagnosis might cause an employer to find a different reason to discipline or excuse an employee, skirting employment laws and saving face. Discrimination can harm one’s career, mental well-being, and financial security. Many people resist seeking care out of fear of discrimination after receiving a diagnosis.
Review your employer’s policies regarding discrimination and their current process for training managers and individuals. If you suspect that an understanding of the law is lacking, reach out to HR leaders to suggest additional training. Report discrimination through the appropriate channels at your organization and elevate your reports to your state’s Department of Labor, if needed.
3. Financial Constraints
Most health plans today are high-deductible, meaning the insured pays a high rate for services before plan coverage kicks in. This initial cost of accessing care, paired with the multiple visits often needed to evaluate a new patient adds up. Depending on what an insurer deems in-network or preferred may not align with an individuals’ care needs, location, or preference. Patients may have to go with an in-network provider located out of town to keep costs down. Others may opt for the more conveniently located but more expensive provider, which can increase out of pocket expenses.
Access to care shouldn’t be determined by your bankroll, and there are ways to reduce costs. First, check out your employer’s employee assistance program, many of which offer multiple mental health visits free of charge. Next, review your insurance benefits to learn what’s covered and search for relevant providers within the most cost-effective tier. Explore alternative options like online therapy platforms, community mental health centers, and your local college for care. Request estimates prior to receiving care, and ask about discounts and if sliding-scale or income-based fee schedules are available.
4. Distrust of the Healthcare System
Many people are distrustful of the traditional healthcare model, and this mistrust keeps many people from getting much-needed care. Historically, minorities have experienced discrimination, injustices, and even abuse, which has led to many communities avoiding healthcare altogether. Systemic mistrust, paired with the unfamiliar and sometimes uncomfortable nature of mental health treatment can make gaining trust challenging.
The foundation of trust can begin to be rebuilt by first acknowledging past wrongdoings. Providers can educate themselves about these injustices and devise strategies to empathetically deliver care to those whose understanding differs. Mental health providers can go out into the community, offer assistance, and break down barriers by challenging this belief as well. By doing the work to learn, engage, and display ethical care, trust can be built among the underserved.
5. Lack of Accessible Services
Finding the care you need can pose a challenge, and when your needs are specialized, it’s even more difficult. Stigma surrounding mental health or a potential diagnosis often stunts one’s natural inclination to ask family and friends for referrals. Research is relegated to physician referrals and online research, which can be lacking compared to other industries and goods.
Look to professional resources for listings of qualified mental health care providers. Professional journals like Psychology Today list therapists, their profiles, and their ability to take new patients in a format similar to LinkedIn. Narrow search criteria based on your location, preferences, and credentials to refine results and find a potential match.
Banish Barriers and Put Your Mental Health First
Don’t let roadblocks stop you from caring for your mental health. Passionate, caring, and qualified mental health professionals are ready to help you navigate your journey to mental wellbeing. Advocate for your needs, tap into the resources available to you, and ask questions to push through any barrier. When you do, you can improve your mental health and your life.
