Mental Health Financial Assistance Guide: Resources for Cancer Patients and Families
Understanding Mental Health Support for Cancer Patients
A cancer diagnosis impacts both physical and emotional well-being. Studies show that up to 38% of cancer patients experience moderate to severe depression, and 40-50% of cancer survivors report moderate to severe levels of anxiety around cancer recurrence.**
Professional mental health support provides crucial tools for managing these challenges, helping patients and caregivers build resilience and maintain hope. However, when families are already stretched thin by medical bills and reduced income due to missed work, the additional cost of therapy can feel impossible to manage. In fact, about 49% of cancer patients*** report experiencing significant financial hardship, which is directly linked to poorer mental health outcomes.
Financial Assistance Programs for Mental Health Care
Flatwater’s Program
Our program covers the cost of mental health therapy for eligible individuals and families in central Texas affected by cancer. Program participants receive a maximum of 40 sessions paid for by Flatwater throughout their lifetime. You’re not required to use all sessions at once. Flatwater is not a mental health practice and does not directly provide therapy services, but we do connect people directly or indirectly impacted by cancer with mental health therapists in our community and fund those services. We have created a network of therapists that specialize in trauma and cancer-related concerns and that meet our organizational standards.
Additional Resources
CancerCare: CancerCare offers a range of services including some limited financial assistance for cancer-related costs and co-pays, as well as professional oncology social workers who can help you find additional resources.
American Cancer Society & ACS Cares: ACS Cares is a mobile app that provides you with resources, access to information specialists, and more. They also operate a 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345.
Sliding-Scale Therapy Options: Many therapists adjust their rates based on income. Platforms like Open Path Collective and local clinics often provide affordable sliding-scale therapy options.
State and Federal Programs: Medicaid, Medicare, and CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) may cover mental health services for eligible individuals. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act mandates mental health coverage in most insurance plans.
Affordable Mental Health Treatment Options
Immediate Support Solutions
For those without insurance or who need immediate assistance, there are low-cost options to explore.
Support groups for patients and caregivers: Support groups, often free, provide emotional and peer support. They can be a great way to connect with others with similar experiences.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many employers offer EAPs that include free or discounted counseling sessions for a time-limited number of sessions.
Community Counseling Centers: Organizations like LifeWorks Austin provide affordable therapy services for individuals and families ensuring income is not a barrier.
Cost Saving Strategies
If cost feels like a barrier to care, consider these steps:
Reach Out for Help: Contact organizations like Flatwater, Texas Oncology, or Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC) for access to their programs.
Explore Local Resources: Central Texas offers numerous support groups and community mental health programs.
Utilize Insurance Benefits: Review your health insurance plan to understand mental health coverage.
Seek Sliding-Scale Therapists: Many providers offer income-based pricing to make therapy more accessible.
You Deserve Care
The intersection of cancer, financial strain, and mental health creates a complex challenge that no one should face alone. While the statistics may feel overwhelming, there are concrete solutions and support systems available.
Don't let financial concerns prevent you from getting the support you need. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or family member, you deserve access to mental health care that can help you navigate this challenging time.
*https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/cam4.6556
