Mental Health
LifeWise wants you to keep doing what you love. That’s why your plan offers support for mental or behavioral health issues such as managing stress, depression, anxiety, eating disorders and substance abuse.
Important mental health & substance use disorder treatment information
In a life-threatening mental health or medical emergency call 911.
In emotional distress crisis: Call/text 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7) or chat with a counselor at 988lifeline.org.
Emergency behavioral health care is always covered by providers in or out of network.
It’s okay to not be okay
Mental health conditions are common: 60% of college student report mental health concerns.
Mental health conditions are highly treatable. With LifeWise, you have benefits and access to care so you can start feeling better now.
You are not alone.
Three ways to find mental health care
Find a doctor
Search the Find a Doctor tool, browse the Mental & Behavioral Health category to find all the mental health and substance use providers available on your plan.
Matchmaker™ for Behavioral Health
This free service will connect you to a provider based on your needs and preferences.
Call 800-971-1491 to get started.
Virtual care
View virtual care options or the LifeWise Student Insurance mobile app (iOS, Android) to get quick access to virtual mental health providers.
Mental health warning signs and symptoms
How to know if you or a loved one needs help
Everyone is unique, but some warning signs include:
- Noticeable personality change
- Inability to cope with daily activities and minor problems
- Strange or grandiose ideas
- Excessive anxiety
- Feelings of depression or apathy for an extended period of time
- Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Thinking about or talking about harming oneself
- Extreme mood swings
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Excessive anger, hostility, or violent behavior
End the stigma
People often avoid mental healthcare for fear that others will judge them. They don’t want to be defined by a diagnosis or seen differently. We can all play a role in ending the stigma.
- Share your own stories of mental health struggles and getting care.
- Avoid using hurtful words or jokes about what someone is going through.
- Be an ally and call out this behavior when you hear others using these terms.
You’re not alone – your unique mental health needs matter
Women’s mental health, maternity, and postpartum
It probably comes as no surprise that mental health conditions affect women and men differently. (source) Depression and anxiety are more common in women. And some conditions linked to hormone changes only affect women. But knowing what is “normal” can be hard. If you notice a change in your thoughts, behaviors, or mood for longer than 2 weeks, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional.
Men’s mental health
Many people see mental health issues as a lack of personal strength. This thinking can stigmatize mental health needs care. It can be especially hard on men to admit they need help or to seek care. (source) Scientists now know that mental health issues—like so many physical conditions—are caused by chemical changes. People can no more overcome depression by “toughing it out” than they can reverse diabetes. Both require expert care.
Children’s mental health
As much as parents hope their children’s lives are carefree, that is not always the case. Anxiety, handling emotions, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are some common reasons parents seek help for their children. You know your child better than anyone else. If something doesn’t feel right to you, mention it to your child’s provider. Premera doesn’t limit the number of mental health visits covered.
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) mental health
Stigma associated with mental illness can lead people to avoid seeking help. BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities may also experience language barriers, cultural norms that discourage mental health care, and a lack of cultural competency by providers. Additionally, trauma caused by racism often causes deeper mental health burdens (source). When seeking care, consider meeting with several providers to find one that offers the experience you need. Feeling comfortable with your provider is key to your success.
LGBTQIA+ mental health
Everyone needs support—particularly people who may face discrimination in pursuit of being themselves. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people have a right to safe, affordable healthcare from a trusted provider. This includes mental health therapy and substance use treatment to help manage stress and anxiety, build self-confidence, and navigate through life’s challenges. A primary care physician or counselor can help you find support in your community.