There are a variety of reasons why some insurance plans do not cover mental health services. In some cases, it may be due to the fact that the insurance company does not consider mental health to be a legitimate medical condition. In other cases, it may be because the insurance company does not believe that mental health treatment is effective and/or worth the cost. Additionally, some insurance plans only cover certain types of mental health treatment (e.g., inpatient care vs. outpatient care) or only cover treatment from certain providers (e.g., only psychiatrists).
One of the biggest problems with lack of coverage for mental health services is that it creates a financial barrier to care. For many people who need mental health treatment, paying out-of-pocket for services is simply not an option. This can lead to people going without needed care or resorting to dangerous and/or ineffective self-help methods (e.g., using drugs or alcohol to cope with symptoms). Additionally, lack of coverage can exacerbate existing disparities in access to care, as those who are already disadvantaged financially are less likely to be able to afford private pay options.
If you are currently seeking mental health treatment and your insurance plan does not cover it, there are a few things you can do. First, try contacting your insurer directly to find out why your particular plan does not cover mental health services. You may be able to appeal this decision or find a different plan that better meets your needs. Additionally, there are many community-based organizations that provide low-cost or free counseling and therapy services; these may be worth considering if you are on a tight budget