The stress caused by a sour economy increases the need for mental health services. Yet many patients cut back during hard times, when they're most vulnerable.
Instead, explore your options. Try negotiating a reduced fee with your therapist or get a referral, or schedule a shorter session if necessary. Check out a list of mental health resources, complete with hotlines, and look for tips on finding a therapist.
By the way, if the massive bailout of Wall Street firms made your blood boil and teeth gnash, here's one thing you can take comfort in: The legislation included a long-sought requirement for many health insurers to cover mental illnesses like other diseases. This means, for example, that if they charge a $15 co-pay for an visit to your heart doctor, they can't charge more than a $15 co-pay for a visit to your therapist for a disorder covered by the plan.
