Life is full of ups and downs. But sometimes life events — financial stress, relationships, isolation, emotional or sexual abuse, stress, and alcohol or drug misuse or abuse — can trigger depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts for some. It is important to remember that you are not alone. If you or a loved one needs immediate help, you can call military crisis line (either Veterans Crisis Line) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and choose option 1. Send a text message to 838255. Or start a chat online. The crisis line is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help you and connect you with the resources you need.
MentalHealth.gov defines mental health this way: “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects the way we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health is important at all stages of life, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood.
However, life’s challenges can affect the way we think, feel, and act. And our mental health can also be affected.
Mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety, can interfere with your life and your overall physical health. You can have mild and brief symptoms or more severe and persistent ones.
According to Dr. Krystyna Bienia, a clinical psychologist and senior policy analyst for the Defense Health Agency, mental health disorders are treatable and recovery is possible.
“TRICARE beneficiaries are encouraged to seek help as soon as they can when they notice something doesn’t feel right or when symptoms start to show up,” said Dr. Bienia. “Early intervention is key, but help at any time is best. It is good not to be good. But be sure to ask for help.”
what are some early signs of possible mental health problems that interfere with your (or a loved one’s) daily routine?
- Eating or sleeping too much or too little.
- Withdrawal from people and usual activities.
- Having trouble concentrating.
- Have little or no energy.
- Feeling numb or like nothing matters.
- Have unexplained aches and pains.
- Feeling helpless or hopeless.
- Smoking or drinking more than usual.
Do you think you or a family member could benefit from mental health services? TRICARE provides a number of resources. If you need help finding a provider, including a mental health provider, you can use the find a doctor tool. You can also contact your primary care provider or your TRICARE regional contractor.
You do not need a referral or prior authorization for any outpatient mental health services (except for psychoanalysis), and substance use disorder watch out. This includes services such as individual or family therapy. For example, if you have TRICARE first, you do not need a referral to see a network provider for in-office outpatient mental health services. if you have TRICARE Select, you can see any TRICARE-authorized provider. But you will lower your out-of-pocket costs if you choose to see a network provider.
if you have TRICARE for life, Medicare is the primary payer for your mental health services. You only need a referral or prior authorization from TRICARE if your Medicare benefits are exhausted.
Are you an active duty member? You should first seek non-emergency mental health services in your military clinic or hospital. You must obtain a referral and prior authorization for all civil mental health services. You can go to TRICARE website Learn more.
Please note that you do not need a referral or prior authorization to receive emergency care. If you think you have a mental health emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number. Or go to the nearest emergency room. You need immediate help if you experience any of these signs:
- Thinking about hurting or killing yourself.
- Looking for ways to hurt yourself.
- Talk about death, die or commit suicide.
- Self-destructive behavior, such as drug abuse or risky use of weapons.
Non-emergency mental health services
Depending on your needs and diagnosis, many levels of treatment may be available to you. how to get it non-emergency mental health services? It depends on the level of care you need, your health plan, and the status of your sponsor. Some non-emergency mental health services that TRICARE covers are:
did you know telemental health services are also part of your TRICARE benefit? Using your computer or phone, you can securely connect with your provider. Visit the TRICARE website for more information on these mental health resources.
Additional services
The Military Health System has additional mental health resources that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:
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