TRICARE, formerly known as the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services, is the supplemental health care program for active-duty and retired military service members and their families.
Recognizing the fact that current and former members of the armed forces and reserves are uniquely vulnerable to mental health issues such as depression, PTSD and addiction, TRICARE offers expanded mental health benefits, including therapy for these conditions. If you have this insurance, take advantage of the opportunity to seek qualified treatment.
Treatment for Active-Duty Service Members and Veterans
Military personnel train to keep themselves in peak physical condition, but often neglect the mental health portion of the equation. Though active-duty service members might worry that seeking help for mental health problems could adversely affect their careers, untreated mental illnesses pose a significant safety threat to you and everyone around you. If you are having suicidal thoughts, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 800-273-8255.
After leaving the service, some veterans find they miss the structure and sense of purpose that military life provides. Others may feel isolated from civilians who don’t understand the things they have done and seen in the line of duty. In some cases, you may also discover that some of the coping mechanisms that helped you keep a cool head on the battlefield have contributed to a worsening mental health or substance abuse disorder.
Lingering trauma and other unaddressed emotional issues from deployment, combat and post-deployment can put veterans at particular risk for developing mental illness and substance abuse. Reported rates of unhealthy behaviors like alcohol, marijuana and illicit drug use increase when people leave military service. More than one in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, slightly higher than the general population.
Using TRICARE to Cover Mental and Behavioral Health Treatment
At Hope by the Sea, we provide evidence-based therapy specifically tailored to active-duty and retired military personnel and their families. We understand military life is exceptionally stressful and involves frequent uncertainty and upheaval. That’s why we offer our clients access to the best treatment possible by partnering with insurers to offer our Joint Commission-accredited care at an in-network rate.
Your ability to pay for therapy should never be an obstacle to seeking the help you need to improve your mental health and quality of life. When you choose a provider within the TRICARE network, such as Hope by the Sea, your insurance will offset many of the costs of your treatment. Take time to familiarize yourself with what your TRICARE policy covers, so you are aware of any copays and deductibles you’re responsible for and can avoid unexpected expenses.
When you’re ready to learn more about Southern California TRICARE dual-diagnosis therapy, our admissions team is here to take your confidential call 24/7. Reach out at 949-541-2877 or connect with us online.
