Mental health
Talking about depression, anxiety or other issues that may affect your mental health isn’t always easy. But you’re not alone. Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental health issues each year.1 So let’s start the conversation.
Let's have an open talk about mental health
Learning how to talk about and understand the mental health challenges you or a loved one may be facing may be the first step. Then, you may learn ways to cope and start feeling better.
How to find mental health services and counseling
UnitedHealthcare members
Learn about programs and support that may be available to you through your health plan. If you’re not quite sure what type of help you may need, get tips on choosing a mental health provider.
More mental health resources
Children and youth mental health
Help support your child’s mental health. Get guidance on mental health needs from early childhood through young adulthood and learn some signs to watch for. Plus, find ways to care for your own mental health.
Suicide prevention
Thoughts of suicide can affect people from all walks of life. Know the warning signs and learn what you should say – and shouldn’t say – to a loved one experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Understanding mental health
Mental health describes conditions that may affect your emotional, psychological and social wellbeing.2 When we talk about mental health, it includes anxiety, depression or other conditions. Mental health may also include things like substance use, eating disorders or psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia, in which people perceive reality abnormally and may have hallucinations or delusions.3 We tend to think of mental health as part of the larger picture of our overall behavioral health.4
Each person has their own story. Mental health challenges may come up any time, and at any age – even in children. Mental health may be tied to social or emotional experiences. Sometimes, mental health issues can result from past abuse5 or trauma.6 Family history7, certain medical conditions or a brain disorder8 may also impact your likelihood of having a mental health condition.
Taking care of your mental health is important for your overall health. Your emotional state may impact your physical health, too. If you’re struggling, seeking treatment may help you feel better so you can live a healthier life.
Some mental health signs may be easy to spot — and some may be harder to notice than others. Mental health is complex, and signs differ for each condition or person. If you see some of these signs, it may be your signal that it's time to get help.9
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Eating or sleeping too much or not enough
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Excessive worrying or fear
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Extreme mood changes
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Difficulty perceiving what’s real and what isn’t
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Inability to do daily activities or handle everyday stress
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Losing interest in people and activities
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Overuse of alcohol or drugs
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Strong feelings of irritability or anger
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Thoughts of harming oneself or others
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Thoughts of suicide
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Unexplained, ongoing aches and pains
While these may be some clues to look for, this list doesn’t cover it all. Check out mentalhealth.gov to view a longer list of mental health concerns. You'll find helpful information about each.
Mental health and behavioral health specialists can help you cope with concerns like:
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Depression
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Anxiety or stress
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Alcohol or substance abuse
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Anger management
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Grief or loss
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Marital problems
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Domestic violence
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Eating disorders
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Compulsive spending or gambling
Seeking out or asking for help may be your most important step in taking care of yourself. Learn how to choose a mental health provider.
Common mental health conditions
Many people may struggle with mental health challenges at different times in their lives. Learn more about common mental health conditions. If these issues sound like things you’re dealing with, you may want to talk to a professional.
Anxiety
Feeling nervous or anxious may seem like a regular part of life. But when it interrupts your daily activities, it may be a bigger issue. Learn how to know if it may be time to reach out for help.10
Burnout
Constantly feeling overwhelmed, way too busy, unmotivated and unproductive at work? You may be experiencing burnout. Learn the signs of burnout and how to get help.10
Depression
Depression is much more than just feeling down. But there is treatment and ways to cope and feel better. Counseling and medication may help, as well as other resources. Learn more about depression and how to get the support you may need.10
Seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression that occurs with the changing seasons. With the right approach, it’s possible to manage and overcome seasonal depression.10
Social isolation and loneliness
While it may be easy to overlook, spending time with friends and family is an important part of caring for your overall health. Make sure you have enough social support in your life and learn ways to strengthen and build connections.10
Stress
We all may deal with stress, but what if it gets to be too much? Learn ways to help stay in better balance when life may get stressful, whether that’s at school, work or home.10
Crisis and emergency care hotlines
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988
For emotional distress or suicidal thoughts
- Available 24/7
- Confidential
- English and Español
Emergency services
Call 911
For immediate, life-threatening needs, including medical crisis, fire, crime or natural disasters
- Available 24/7
- English and Español
Substance Use Helpline
Call 1-855-780-5955 TTY 711
For help with alcohol and drug concerns and care
- Available 24/7
- Confidential
- English and Español
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text "START" to 88788
For crisis intervention and information for victims of domestic violence and those calling on their behalf
- Available 24/7
- Confidential
- Language Line available (over 140 languages)