TRICARE Provides Comprehensive Mental Health Care and Resources 24/7

TL/DR –

TRICARE, the health care program serving uniformed service members, retirees, and their families, provides a variety of mental health support services. These services can be accessed based on the individual’s TRICARE plan and can include preventive medicine, day-to-day stress management, and assistance with more complex challenges, among others. TRICARE also offers virtual health care options, including “telemental” health services, emergency mental health care, and non-emergency mental health care, with access to these resources depending on factors like the beneficiary’s group, region, and specific plan.

Mental Health Resources for TRICARE Beneficiaries

Are you or someone you know in crisis? Reach out for immediate assistance by calling or texting 988, or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to provide the help you need.

Mental health is a vital part of your overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with day-to-day stress or complex challenges, TRICARE offers mental health support when and where it’s needed. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating, according to Jeannine Pickrell, director for Population Health and Disease Management at TRICARE Health Plan, Defense Health Agency.

Recognize the importance of mental well-being and unlock your health by understanding how to access care based on your TRICARE plan. Whether you need short or long-term support, TRICARE offers services to fit your mental health needs, though a referral or pre-authorization may be needed depending on your plan.

If you’re unsure of what applies to your situation, consult with your TRICARE contractor. According to the Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Services Fact Sheet, TRICARE covers a wide range of services.

For people preferring virtual health services, TRICARE covers a variety of options allowing you to receive mental health care from home. The access specifics to these options vary by region, with details available for the East Region, West Region, and Overseas.

For telemental health services, use the Find a Doctor tool or contact your regional contractor to explore your options.

TRICARE provides mental health coverage for all eligible beneficiaries, with access depending on your plan, category, and care immediacy. In a medical emergency, no referral is required—call 911 or go to the nearest ER, and contact your TRICARE regional contractor within 24 hours. You can also reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line.

For non-emergency mental health care, TRICARE covers a vast range of mental health services. How to access them depends on your beneficiary group. Whether you’re an active service member, a beneficiary of TRICARE Prime, TRICARE Select, or TRICARE For Life, or a National Guard and Reserve member or family member, there are specific procedures to follow based on your status.

If you have a TRICARE health plan overseas, the availability may vary by location. Contact the TRICARE Overseas contractor for assistance.

Take the first step in managing your mental health—because mental health care is health care. Unlock your health with TRICARE today.

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