Increased Mental Health Benefits & Coverage for Many

Over the last few years, more employers have begun offering insurance for therapy 
or increase mental health benefits for their employees. We can credit this to the 
cultural decrease in stigma around mental illness and the increase in emphasis 
on getting mental health help.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a significant rise in mental illness 
across the country. Many are experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety for 
the first time as the pandemic changes the world. This has made it even more 
critical for employers to make sure their employees can access mental health benefits 
and insurance coverage for therapy. Many employers are rising to meet this challenge.

Mental Health Stigma
Mental health stigma exists when someone views mental illness as something shameful 
or embarrassing. Someone can experience mental health stigma if they view others or 
themselves as lesser than, weaker, or wrong compared to someone without mental 
illness. Where stigma exists, individuals tend to feel an increased amount of shame 
toward their mental illness and avoid getting help as a result. Stigma has also created 
barriers to professional help. With 1 in 5 adults are experiencing mental illness, the 
stigma against it is being torn down. The acceptance of mental health-related issues 
in society means more people than ever are getting the help they need.

Why Employers Are Increasing Mental Health Benefits
More employers are offering mental health benefits to their employees than in the
past. This year has seen that employers increase the mental health benefits they’re 
offering midstream, as they’ve recognized the increasing need. The pandemic has 
caused a considerable increase in mental health issues in the United States.

Individuals are experiencing increases depression and anxiety as they figure out
how to navigate a pandemic for the first time in their life. Large portions of our 
population are feeling increased feelings of loneliness, uncertainty, and helplessness. 
As workplaces shift operating procedures, adapt again to work from home orders, and 
enact other significant changes in their work environments, employee mental health is 
being brought to their attention now more than ever before. Many employees have been 
working from home for many months, which can lead to challenging isolation. We should
commend the numerous employers who have recognized the rising mental health crisis 
during this time and taken action to ensure their employees have access to the 
mental health care they need.

Benefits of Insurance Coverage for Therapy
Eliminating Barriers
Having access to mental health benefits and insurance coverage for therapy 
eliminates barriers to professional help. Cost is one of the most common reasons 
that individuals avoid seeking mental health services. Offering mental health benefits 
and insurance for therapy to employees eliminates these barriers.

Improve Work-Life Balance
With access to mental health benefits, individuals can be more successful in 
managing their mental health. Working with a professional equips them with strategies 
and techniques that promote healthier responses, coping mechanisms, and life balance. 
Therapy, especially when pursued proactively, can prevent burnout, promote growth, 
and increase personal satisfaction. 

Mental Health Services During the Pandemic
The pandemic has prompted a massive wave of uncertainty and hopelessness among 
adults who might never before have faced mental illness. As more individuals face 
mental illness due to the pandemic, practical accessibility has thankfully increased 
as well. Telehealth has reduced the barrier of logistics for many therapy-seekers. 
This means that the increased coverage provided by employers is effective, even 
during lockdown conditions.