Virtual doctors and your mental health

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When you hear the words “virtual doctor,” what comes to mind? A hologram popping up at a moment’s notice? A robot you chat with online?

It’s easy to let your imagination run wild, especially if you haven’t given virtual mental health visits — also known as telehealth services — a try recently. A virtual doctor is just like any other licensed mental health professional, but instead of seeing them in person, you receive treatment via video call or chat from your phone, tablet or computer. Like other medical care, mental health care, including virtual visits, is covered by most Wellmark health plans.

Virtual visits can be a great place to start when exploring your options for mental health care.

What is virtual mental health care?

More than 50 million people, or 1 in 5 adults, are currently experiencing a mental health condition. Yet, more than half do not receive treatment.

From perceived social stigma to lack of access, many people find it can be challenging to reach out for help. But it doesn’t have to be. Virtual mental health care opens doors for many people seeking support.

Virtual doctors offer online therapy and support for a variety of mental health concerns and conditions, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Postpartum
• Relationships
• Trauma and loss
• Panic attacks
• Stress
• Insomnia
• And more

Virtual mental health services vary by the provider you see and the type of support you need. Many health insurance plans cover virtual therapy visits or chat-based coaching — in fact, almost all Wellmark plans include virtual care benefits.

When is virtual care a good option for mental health treatment?

Not sure if you’re ready for in-person, one-on-one counseling or group therapy sessions? Do you have a busy schedule? Is there a shortage of mental health providers in your area? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, virtual mental health visits may be the best care option for you.

Here are a few benefits of virtual mental health visits:

• Convenience: Most people start to see the benefits of therapy after an average of 15–20 sessions. It’s not always possible for some people to consistently schedule and make time for these appointments. Especially if you live in an area where you may have to travel for care. Virtual visits are easier to fit into your schedule and can be done from nearly anywhere to make consistent treatment possible.
• Affordability: Cost of care can be a huge barrier for people seeking mental health treatment. Virtual visits may be covered by your Wellmark health insurance plan. Just make sure you log in to myWellmark and check your specific benefits before receiving care.
• Privacy: Texting, emails and phone calls can make it easier to build trust and open up about sensitive feelings you may be experiencing. Virtual visits also make it possible to get care in a place that’s comfortable for you (like your home).

How do I use my virtual mental health care benefits?

Ready to try a virtual mental health visit? Wellmark members can log in to myWellmark to access their mental health benefits. From there you can:

• Explore mental health support options — like screenings and behavioral health case management.
• Learn when it may be helpful to seek care.
• Find in-network mental health professionals who offer both virtual visits and in-person options.

If you feel you could be in immediate danger as a result of a mental health condition, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 to speak with a skilled mental health counselor nearby. In a mental health emergency, call 911.