While health insurance is often thought of as a financial safety net, did you know it can also have positive effects on your mental health? Surprisingly, the power of health insurance goes beyond your ability to pay medical bills.
The mental side of health insurance
In the US, health insurance is a hotly debated topic, with arguments ranging from the cost of premiums to access to medical care. While it’s clear that having health insurance is important for physical health, many people may not realise the psychological benefits that come with having this kind of coverage. Let’s explore the ways in which health insurance can positively impact mental health.
For starters, having health insurance can help alleviate stress and anxiety related to medical bills. According to a survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation, medical debt is the number one cause of personal bankruptcy in the United States. When individuals have health insurance, they are more likely to seek out medical care when they need it, which can prevent small health issues from developing into larger, more expensive problems. Knowing that medical care is available and affordable can be a huge relief, reducing the burden of worry and anxiety that can come with an unexpected health issue.
Additionally, having health insurance can lead to better access to mental health care. Mental health treatment can be expensive, and many people may not be able to afford it without insurance. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly half of all Americans with mental illness do not receive mental health care on an annual basis. This amounts to roughly 30 million people per year. This can lead to worsening symptoms and a decreased quality of life. With health insurance, individuals are more likely to be able to afford mental health treatment, which can improve their overall well-being.
Health insurance can also lead to greater access to preventive care, which can help identify and address health issues before they become serious. For instance, individuals with health insurance may be more likely to receive regular check-ups, cancer screenings, and vaccinations. This can lead to earlier detection of health problems, which can improve outcomes and reduce the need for more costly treatments down the road. Regular preventive care can also help individuals feel more in control of their health, which can lead to a greater sense of well-being and lower levels of anxiety.
Having health insurance can also impact your ability to perform in your career. According to HSA for America, employees who have an employer-sponsored health insurance plan at work are more productive on a daily basis. This helps them grow faster in their careers, earn more income, and live better lives.
Another benefit of health insurance is that it can provide access to support programs and resources that can help individuals manage chronic health conditions. Chronic health conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes can be difficult to manage and can have a significant impact on a person’s mental health. With health insurance, individuals may be able to access resources such as disease management programs, support groups, and educational resources that can help them manage their condition more effectively. This can lead to improved physical health outcomes and a greater sense of control over their health, which can positively impact mental health as well.
Finally, health insurance provides a sense of security and peace of mind. Knowing that medical care is available and affordable can reduce anxiety related to potential health issues. This can lead to a greater sense of overall well-being and can reduce the impact of stress on mental health. In addition, having health insurance can provide a safety net in the event of a major health issue or an unexpected medical expense. This can help prevent financial hardship and provide a sense of security in uncertain times.
Finding the right health insurance plan
Finding an affordable health insurance plan can be difficult, but there are a few different approaches you can use to help you find the right plan for your needs and budget.
- One option is to use a health insurance exchange, such as healthcare.gov, which can help you compare plans from different insurance providers and determine your eligibility for financial assistance.
- You can also work with a licensed insurance agent who can help you navigate the complex world of health insurance and find a plan that fits your needs and budget. It’s important to consider your healthcare needs and budget when choosing a plan, as well as factors such as deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket costs.
- You may also want to consider plans with lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, or plans with higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs.
By doing your research and exploring different options, you can find an affordable health insurance plan that provides the coverage you need to protect your health and well-being.
Set yourself up for success
The benefits of health insurance extend beyond physical health and care. There are also secondary psychological benefits that lead to a better quality of life. Consider each of these factors as you consider your family’s health insurance needs.
Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
