Mental health

Let's have an open talk about mental health

Talking about depression, anxiety or other problems that may affect your behavioral health (also called mental health) isn’t always easy. But let’s start the conversation. If you or a loved one may be dealing with these issues, you’re not alone. Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by behavioral health issues each year.1 Learning how to talk about and understand your mental health issues may be the first step in recovery. Then, you may learn ways to cope and start feeling better.

What is behavioral health?

Behavioral health (or mental health) are terms used to describe a number of problems that may affect your mental wellbeing. When we talk about behavioral health, it includes stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders or other psychological issues. Behavioral health disorders may also include things like substance use disorders, eating disorders, or psychotic disorders.

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.

Understanding mental health problems and getting help

How to find mental health programs and support

If you are a UnitedHealthcare member, learn about programs and support that may be available to you through your health plan.

Parent and youth mental health resources

Do you notice changes in your child’s behavior? Getting kids to open up about their mental health may be challenging, but with the right resources, help is possible. Learn ways to be open, be well, and be ready to offer support. 

Common mental health problems

Below are details to help you learn more about mental health problems that many people may struggle with at different times in their lives. You may want to talk to a professional if these problems sound like issues you may be dealing with.

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. 

Burnout

If you're feeling constantly overwhelmed, way too busy, unmotivated and unproductive at work — or even all of those things at the same time — you may be experiencing burnout. Learn the signs of burnout and how to get help. 

Depression

Depression isn’t just feeling down. If you or a loved one struggle with depression, you may be aware that it’s a serious problem. But there may be ways to cope and feel better. Counseling and medication may help, as well as other resources. Learn more about depression and how to get help.

Social isolation and loneliness

While it may be easy to overlook, spending time with friends and family and making sure you have enough social support in your life is an important part of taking care of your overall health. 

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 at home.

Mental health support and resources available by phone or online

If you need help right away — for yourself or a loved one — call 911 or use the emergency numbers below.

Substance Use Helpline1-855-780-5955

If you feel that you or a loved one are experiencing signs of addiction, call the confidential helpline to get support, guidance on treatment options, help finding a network provider and answers to your questions.

National Domestic Violence Hotline1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

Get help with crisis intervention, information and referrals to local services for victims of domestic violence and those calling on their behalf.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org/chat for 24-hour, toll-free, confidential support and prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. For TTY users, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

The Crisis Text Line — Text “Home” to 741741

The Crisis Text Line is a free resource available 24/7 to help you connect with a crisis counselor.