Mental health
insurance

Mental health problems affect millions of people every year, and they can come in many different forms. Depression, anxiety, self-harm, eating disorders, and addiction are just some of the conditions that might affect you or someone you know.

Mental health insurance might help you manage your conditions

What is mental health cover?

Psychiatric care has some of the longest waiting lists on the NHS. Many patients have to wait months, if not years, for counselling or an appointment with a psychiatrist consultant.

As a result, patients in need of mental healthcare may be forced to choose between lengthy NHS waiting lists or costly private clinic treatments.

That's why many insurance companies offer mental health insurance, a private Health Insurance add-on that covers private mental health care in full or in part.

Does health insurance cover mental health?

The majority of health insurance policies do not cover mental health or psychiatric treatment, but some do.

This implies you'll have to pay extra to request a mental health add-on from your provider. The cost varies by insurer, but mental health insurance policies are costly because most treatments are performed on an outpatient basis.

Anxiety, sadness, PTSD, OCD, phobias, and substance misuse are examples of disorders that can be covered by mental health insurance. The services for which you are entitled will vary depending on the provider, but here are some examples:

• Psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors in private practice
• Mental health examinations
• 24/7 support
• Treatment programmes that are tailored to the individual
• Counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy, among other rehabilitation services

Getting help from a therapist costs roughly £120- £180 per hour, depending upon several factors such as where you live and the clinic you choose. Thus, mental health insurance can save you a lot of money if you suffer from a mental health disorder.

Is mental health covered as standard with health insurance?

It's worth noting that mental health coverage isn't usually included in basic Medical Insurance policies; you'll need to add it on in most circumstances. Doing so will raise your premiums, yet it can be a highly valuable benefit if you require it.

What can mental health insurance cover?

The following are some examples of mental health issues that are covered by private health insurance:

• Anxiety disorders such as OCD
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Anorexia
• Phobias
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety illness that occurs (PTSD)
• Depression after childbirth
• Misuse of drugs (e.g., drug or alcohol dependency)

This is not an exhaustive list, and certain insurers may cover some disorders while excluding others. It's critical to read each policy carefully before purchasing it to ensure that you understand what will be covered in the future.

Pre-existing medical issues that you have when you apply for health insurance are usually not covered. Private health insurance is designed to cover treatment for illnesses that arise after you've purchased coverage.

Exclusions for mental health are the same as for physical health, although a history of mental illness does not automatically disqualify you from coverage. If you have previously experienced stress, for example, you may still be covered for depression or other unrelated mental diseases.

When applying for insurance, it is critical to report all pre-existing mental health disorders. Failure to do so could result in your claim being invalidated.

Are any types of mental health issues not covered?

There are exclusions to all health insurance policies that you should be aware of. Dementia is the most common ailment that is not covered by health insurance.

Dementia and its accompanying disorders are currently chronic and incurable. Chronic diseases, such as dementia, are typically not covered by mental health insurance policies.

Behavioural and developmental disorders are rarely covered by health insurance plans. However, conditions stemming from these illnesses, such as stress and worry, may still be covered.

Will my mental health issues affect my insurance premiums?

If your mental health problem is classified as a handicap, meaning it has a long-term impact on your everyday life, your insurance premiums for various products may rise.

While it is illegal for insurers to discriminate against persons with disabilities, companies can raise premiums if your handicap makes you more likely to file a claim, and they have objective facts to back up their claim.

If you are unable to work due to mental illness, you may discover that your insurance premiums increase. If you are unemployed, insurers will normally charge you more for insurance.

Why should I have it?

Mental healthcare insurance is designed to support your mental health. Mental health issues can be draining, not only on yourself but also on those around you. If you have a condition that requires treatment, mental healthcare insurance can help keep costs down and save you from burdening your family with bills that they cannot pay.

Moreover, it protects against financial risk while seeking help for mental illness or behavioural disorders. It is a great idea to look into adding mental health coverage to your existing medical care plan.

Insurance companies in the UK that offer mental health plans as add ons to health insurance include Bupa, Vitality, and AXA. You can also add other services such as dental to your health insurance plan.