Mental Health Insurance | Introduction
Mental disorder means mental sickness that causes mental disorder. Mental health can be defined in terms of daily life activity, relationships, and physical health. As per WHO (World Health Organization), mental health is more than the absence of mental disorders. Mental disorders can happen to anybody.
In the United States, the National Alliance on Mental Illness in America predicted that one in five adults encounters mental illness issues in a year. This is a major root cause in America that leads to disability and depression. Mental health issues arise after 14 years old. It can happen at different life stages.
Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Usual symptoms are agitation, anxiety, depression, mania, paranoia, and psychosis. Symptoms of mental disorders include breakup from friends, family, or colleagues, oversleeping or little sleeping, disappointment, low energy, negative emotions or thinking, hearing voices, alcohol consumption, confusion, mood swings, eating disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia.
Causes of Mental Illness
There are many factors that affect mental health, like socioeconomics, education, work, age, ethnicity, childhood traumas, biological factors, poor relationships with parents, and many more.
Ways to Improve Mental Health
A psychiatrist or clinical psychologist can improve mental health by following these strategies:
- Leisure activities such as gym, yoga, art, and meditation.
- Social networking and natural environments.
- Yoga and listening to music to reduce stress.
- A healthy diet, appropriate sleep, and stress reduction techniques.
- Walking, swimming, and sports to reduce anxiety.
- Positive attitude and stress management techniques.
- Breathing exercises and self-awareness.
- Reading habits to reduce stress.
- Engaging in fun activities like digital wellness apps, art therapy, yoga apps, and more.
Mental Health Insurance | Best Insurance Companies
Several organizations offer mental health insurance:
- Oscar: Provides a health management program and is rated 2 out of 5.
- Kaiser Permanente: Offers mental health coverage and is rated 4.27 out of 5.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield and Aetna Plan: Provide mental health disorder treatment.
In India, 197.3 million individuals reported mental disorders in 2017, leading to the introduction of the National Mental Health Act. India launched Ayushman Bharat, covering mental illnesses for 500 million people. After COVID-19, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India mandated mental health coverage in insurance policies.
In Pakistan, mental health insurance is limited, with programs like the Sehat Sahulat Program. However, the government needs to allocate a separate budget to meet the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goal.
Conclusion
Mental illness is a serious issue that affects society’s well-being. Without addressing mental health, society cannot function effectively. While mental disorders are more prevalent in Western countries, they are rising in South Asian nations due to socioeconomic burdens. Addressing these challenges with proper insurance coverage, healthcare access, and mental well-being strategies is essential for a healthier society.
