Three Ways We Support Our Members’ Mental Health During the Coronavirus Outbreak
We’re committed to helping those in need
The global COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis is a source of stress, anxiety and other mental and behavioral health challenges for many people. At Tufts Health Plan, we’re committed to helping support their wellbeing.
Some people may experience actual psychological trauma as a result of this crisis, which could have lasting repercussions on their mental and physical health.
The reverberations of the coronavirus pandemic are being felt in every aspect of our lives right now, from work to socializing to finances to health. Working from home and practicing “social distancing” can lead to feelings of loneliness and boredom, and those with children at home are feeling the stress of juggling work and childcare or homeschooling. Many people are feeling anxious or fearful about the uncertainties that lie ahead and worry about the health of their loved ones. For people with mental and behavioral health issues like depression, anxiety or substance use disorders, the coronavirus pandemic may be triggering or worsening their symptoms.
Whether our members are working from home or, in the case of essential services professions, still coming to work, we’re here to support their mental health.
Making it easy to get help from mental health professionals
During times of crisis like the one we’re in now, talking with a counselor, therapist or other mental health professional can be extremely valuable, even for members without any underlying mental health issues. Professionals can validate members’ feelings, offer concrete strategies for coping and direct them to other resources if needed. In-office visits are, of course, not currently an option. But as always, Tufts Health Plan members can schedule a video appointment or phone call seven days a week for support with anxiety, depression and other mental and behavioral health issues, using our telehealth solution powered by Teladoc®.¹ Until further notice, there will be no member cost for this service for our members, including members of self-funded groups that have elected this benefit and have not opted-out of cost sharing modifications. Members who have mental health professionals they regularly see in person should check in with their providers, as many are offering telehealth or phone appointments. Out-of-pocket costs for telehealth visits with network providers will be waived until further notice. The Tufts Health Plan Behavioral Health team can provide information and education on telehealth services available and provide support, navigation and assistance with locating other network providers who can provide access to remote telehealth services.
Providing support for substance use challenges and disorders
One of the biggest behavioral health risks of the current situation is that people will increase their use of alcohol or drugs in response to feelings of stress, isolation or boredom. For members in recovery, relapse is a real danger. Community support is an important part of recovery, and members used to attending group meetings don’t have that option right now. Fortunately, some organizations are now offering virtual recovery groups. The Behavioral Health phone line at Tufts Health Plan is also available to help members get support, connect with resources and find telehealth providers for substance use issues. Members can call 800-208-9565 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and Thursday between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Promoting self-care
Simple practices like journaling, exercise, yoga and meditation can help people stay centered, positive and productive. Meditation, in particular, has been shown to alleviate stress and improve mood. Tufts Health Plan is proud to offer commercial plan members² access to several mindfulness resources perfect for this time of social distancing, including discounted online yoga and meditation classes and a free 10-part audio series, “Meditation 101.”
It’s unclear how long the changes brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak will persist, but one thing is clear: We’re all in it together. Tufts Health Plan is here for you, ready to support your mental and emotional wellbeing in whatever way we can.