Getting insurance or understanding your current insurance plan may seem complicated. Understanding Health Insurance explains the basics and can help you navigate the system successfully.
Some people living with a mental health condition may need to receive disability income from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Social Security Income (SSI) when they are unable to work. The Social Security Administration provides information and an online Disability Planner and Application or you can call 800-772-1213 for information on the application process.
Some organizations offer help with applications and appeals including:
If you have questions or concerns about Medicaid and Medicare eligibility or benefits, contact the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) or call 800-MEDICARE (633-4227).
Many people have also gotten Medicare and Social Security assistance through the Medicare Rights Center, which provides their MRC Consumer Hotline at 800-333-4114.
Our Finding Stable Housing page can help you identify options that may work in your situation and information on how to get in touch with housing resources.
Your NAMI Affiliate may be able to offer suggestions. Also ask your community mental health center, Clubhouse or call 2-1-1 for help accessing housing. Local libraries are also good resources for information.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Treatment Locator includes a state by state searchable database of mental health care facilities. You can also call their Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357), 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The American Residential Treatment Association (ARTA) maintains a list of specialized programs. The member organizations of ARTA offer a variety of services and are able to respond to a wide range of needs. Check with your insurance or Medicare office to see what’s covered.
NAMI doesn’t recommend or endorse mental health providers or facilities as we can’t speak to the quality of their care. Information about mental health treatment and services and finding mental health professionals will help you locate treatment services and make informed decisions about what’s best for you or a loved one.
Finding a mental health provider that participates in your insurance plan could be an important financial consideration. Check with your insurance provider’s member services department or provider directory to locate mental health care professionals in your area.
For help locating Medicare, Medicaid and other low-cost or sliding-scale treatment options, many people contact the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline and treatment locator services.
Psychology Today has an online, searchable database of therapists, psychiatrists and treatment facilities. Useful information on each provider includes: specialties, qualifications, costs, a short biographical statement and photograph.
Roughly 50% of people living with a mental health condition also have a problem with substance abuse. This creates a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. Participating in treatment for both at the same time can lead to a more sustained recovery.
Our Dual Diagnosis page has information on symptoms, treatment, self-help information and support groups. To help you locate treatment, the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a 24/7 Helpline with national treatment referrals to programs that specialize in helping people with a dual diagnosis recover. They can be reached at 800-662-HELP (4357).
First, it’s important to understand your diagnosis. Learning more about the mental health condition and treatment options helps you to better establish a treatment plan that works for you.
Being well informed allows you make decisions about finding a mental health professional and which treatment settings may be most helpful in helping you achieve wellness.
Many people find it helpful to talk with others who can identify with your situation and provide support. Your NAMI Affiliate offers free education programs and support groups that connect you with others affected by mental health conditions themselves or in their family. These groups and courses provide information on mental health conditions, symptoms, recovery strategies and coping tips.
NAMI HelpLine is available M-F, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. ET. Call 800-950-6264,
text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7).
