It is estimated that 31.1% of Americans will experience anxiety at some point. Anxiety is a condition that can arise for a variety of reasons or life changes, and there are many anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and so on. Seeking help for mental health is a big step, and fiancing necessary treatment shouldn’t be a stumbling block.
Medicare covers treatment for mental health treatment, including anxiety. Learn more about what Medicare covers and how to find the proper treatment for anxiety disorders and other mental health issues.
Does Medicare Cover Anxiety Disorders?
Medicare covers various mental health issues, including anxiety, one of the most common. Being nervous once in a while is normal, but constant anxiety is not normal. Persistent feelings of stress and nervousness are signs of an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety can strike a person at any time in their lives and interfere with their quality of life. Suffering from anxiety may make you overthink simple things. Severe anxiety can also make cause depression. Some people with anxiety may refuse to do anything outside their comfort zone because they are too nervous, but this is no way to live your life.
Medicare covers several different types of therapy. Therapists are specially trained to treat different kinds of anxiety. The most common type of therapy is individual therapy when you and your therapist talk one-on-one about your problems. Finding the root of your anxiety is essential, and your therapist can teach you how to overcome your anxious feelings. You can also learn ways to avoid feeling anxious.
Group therapy is another treatment that exposes you to people with the same issues. Meeting with a group to work through feelings of anxiety can help combat social anxiety and help individuals build relationships. Talking with others who understand how debilitating anxiety can be will reduce the severity of the symptoms.
How to Use Medicare for Anxiety Disorders
The first step to treatment is receiving an evaluation and diagnostic testing. Being evaluated is essential. Trained therapists will check to see if you have any other mental condition besides anxiety, such as depression or trauma. An evaluation will give you a solid foundation for your mental health. Your psychiatrist can then work off that foundation to help you.
Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
Many people who suffer from anxiety may develop secondary problems like substance abuse. Frequently, treating anxiety may also mean treating addiction or substance abuse. Medicare also covers many necessary tests and treatments related to substance abuse.
Anxiety often occurs with depression. Depression can often make anxiety worse or vice versa. If you have depression, it is important to treat it along with your anxiety. Medicare can help with individual and group therapy. But there are some cases when a therapist is not enough.
You may need to be admitted into an inpatient program if you have severe anxiety. Inpatient programs are when you stay overnight at a facility to receive consistent treatment around the clock.
Anxiety Disorders and Medicare
Anxiety disorders can negatively impact a person’s quality of life when left untreated. Anxiety often occurs with depression and may result in addiction or substance abuse. Medicare can ensure you get the mental health treatment you need and covers many types of therapy and treatment. Explore our services to learn more about how Medicare works for mental health issues.
