22 | HR Connection
Beat the Holiday Blues Mental Health Care is Needed Health Care
Originially published in The Pulse, December 2021
M
ental health includes our emotional, psychological and social well-being, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It affects how we think, feel and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices. Medication, counseling or both can help you manage any issues you may be facing.
MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT
People, including children and adolescents, with untreated mental health disorders are at high risk for many unhealthy and unsafe behaviors, including alcohol or drug abuse, violent or self-destructive actions, and suicide. Mental health disorders also have a serious impact on physical health and are associated with the prevalence, progression and outcome of some of today’s most pressing chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Fortunately, several mental health disorders can be treated effectively. Early diagnosis and treatment can decrease the disease burden of mental health disorders as well as associated chronic diseases. Assessing and addressing mental health remains important to help ensure a longer, healthier life
MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES It’s important to know that you’re not alone if you’re suffering from any one of several mental health issues. In fact, they’re likely more common than you think. The CDC reports: • more than 50% of people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime • 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness or issue in any given year • 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness • 1 in 25 Americans live with a serious mental illness, such a schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression The five most common mental health disorders include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance misuse and attention deficit disorder. Others include: • •
bipolar, schizophrenia and psychotic disorders neurocognitive disorders and dementia
• • • • •
obsessive compulsive and related disorders personality disorders difficulty sleeping or nightmares physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems and skin rashes worsening chronic health problems
TRS-ACTIVECARE AND TRS-CARE STANDARD RESOURCES Every TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard plan provides confidential mental health coverage. These services are available from licensed therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, or certified drug and alcohol abuse counselors for adults 18 and older through your TRS Virtual Health via Teladoc®. You can also access other mental health providers directly through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX).
