Mental Health Awareness Month: A Time to Focus on Integrated Care

National Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May since 1949 and was started by the Mental Health America organization. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 52.9 million adults (21%) in the United States experienced a mental illness, as of 2021. The interconnectedness of physical and mental health is undeniable.

An Urgent Need for Integration: The current health care system often siloes mental and physical health care. This fragmentation can be challenging for many patients as they attempt to access the comprehensive care they need. Providers can play a pivotal role in bridging this gap and improving overall patient health.

This involves:

• Routine Screening: Incorporating simple, validated screening tools for mental health conditions into routine physical examinations. This allows for early identification and intervention.
• Collaborative Care: Establishing collaborative relationships with mental health professionals to ensure seamless referrals and coordinated care.
• Early Intervention: Recognizing the warning signs of mental distress and actively engaging in conversations with patients who express concerns.
• Addressing Stigma: Openly discussing mental health in the clinical setting, normalizing the experience of mental illness, and combating stigma through compassionate communication.
• Patient Education: Providing patients with resources and information about available mental health services, fostering self-management strategies, and empowering them to advocate for their own well-being.

There are several national and state resources available for those experiencing a mental health crisis, including:

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7/365)
  • Call or Text 988
  • Chat online
  • Assistance if you are Deaf and Hard of Hearing
• PA Support & Referral Helpline
  • Call 1-855-284-2494 (TTY: 724-631-5600)

Highmark Wholecare also offers support to members who need assistance, resources, and treatment for mental health needs. Resources vary depending on members’ health care benefits.

• Highmark Wholecare PA Medicare D-SNP members
  • Highmark Wholecare covers some levels of treatment including inpatient, outpatient, and medication management.
  • Levels of care that are not covered by Medicare D-SNP may be covered and coordinated with the member’s Behavioral Health Managed Care Organization BH-MCO (for PA). To locate a treatment provider for Highmark Wholecare PA Medicare D-SNP members please click here.
• Highmark Wholecare PA Medicaid members
  • PA Medicaid recipients have behavioral health benefits managed by a BH-MCO.
  • To find the BH-MCO for the county in which the individual resides visit the DHS website.

This May, let us commit ourselves to a more integrated and holistic approach to patient care, recognizing the vital link between physical and mental health.