Your Guide to Mental Health

Caring for your mind and body is the key to good health. Learn more and get support with your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan plan. We're all in this together.

A little help to break the silence

It's time to get real about how we're really feeling

The COVID-19 pandemic, social injustices, and usual twists and turns of life have weighed on many of us lately. And we're not always dealing with it in a healthy way.

You might find that you're drinking or vaping more, ignoring how you feel or feeling embarrassed to admit you need support. You might be putting other people's well-being above your own. Or, waiting for a breaking point before seeking care.

But there's no need to wait any longer. You have affordable options for mental health care with your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan plan. And many that you can use right from home.

We're here to help

Your care options

Whether you want to talk to someone in person, or virtually from your couch, we’ve got you covered. You can even explore online learning that’s self-paced. Explore all your options now. Get support

Phone + online support

In-person support

Self-guided care

Primary care physician

Primary care physician

Your partner in seeking treatment

If you're looking for an easy way to connect with a mental health professional, make an appointment with your PCP for a list of references. They may have other behavioral or mental health options for you to try as well.

Don’t have a PCP? You can log in to your Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan member account to find one.

Steps to cope with stigma

A young couple supports each other

Stigma refers to negative perceptions about mental health conditions. It prevents 40% of people with anxiety or depression from seeking care.1 Here are some strategies to overcome it.

Erase the shame
Did you know that stigma can come from yourself and be directed at yourself? Remember to treat yourself with the same compassion you would if you were talking to a close friend.

Isolation is the enemy
You may be reluctant to talk about your mental health. Reaching out to your family, friends, clergy or community is often an important step in getting relief.

Get treatment
Four in ten American adults have seen a counselor at some point in their lives.2 Don't let the fear of being labeled with a mental health condition prevent you from seeking professional help. 

PODCAST

The effects of emotional eating

Emotional eating can take a toll on our health. This podcast covers why we do it and ways to help ease emotional eating.

A woman sits and eats a pizza

For years, I’d show up in life being physically present but mentally I was checked out — floating through each day only to find myself in bed with racing thoughts and panic attacks. Therapy made it possible to focus on me, my family and my dreams.

Blue Cross member, Al-Qaadir B.
Care option: In-person and online support

 
 
A Blue Cross member
1 OF

What can you do to reduce stigma

Two women support and uplift each other

See how you can reduce universal stigma on mental health

Education is always a good place to start when it comes to stigma. Know the facts, and advocate for yourself and others when opportunities come up. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of your attitudes and behavior. Examine your own judgemental thinking that may have been planted or reinforced by society.

  • Always put thought into your words. What you say can perpetuate stigma, even if you don’t mean to, and affect the well-being of others.

  • Talk to your friends and family about mental health, and be supportive and encouraging of seeking treatment.

Knowledge is power

Learn more about behavioral health, including common conditions and definitions.

Recommended reading

A man sits and struggles with depression
A healthier Michigan

7 surprising ways to fight seasonal affective disorder

Learn ways to lift your spirits during the winter months.

Learn the seven ways
A woman sits and talks about her struggles
Blog

Coping with isolation

Isolation resulting from the pandemic can affect your brain in more ways than one.

Get strategies to cope
A young woman does a good deed for an elderly couple
A Healthier Michigan

Why random acts of kindness are good for you

See how acts of kindness can positively affect your brain.

Start spreading kindness

More to explore

Guide
Parent holds their smiling child
Parents

You've got the most important job in the world. Let us help you through it.

See parent's guide
Guide
Woman opens her eyes and smiles
Women

Make time for your behavioral health with these programs and services.

See women's guide
Guide
Two men laugh together
Men

Check in on your mental fitness and learn how to get confidential support.

See men's guide

GUIDE
Older woman looks up mental health solutions
Seniors

Mind, body, and spirit. Staying fit and active also means taking care of your mental health.

See senior's guide
GUIDE
 Caregiver helping elder women
Caregivers

Are you a caregiver? Get your caregiver guide here.

See caregiver's guide
  1. Addressing Stigma, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
  2. Americans Feel Good About Counseling, Barna Research

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and National Domestic Violence Hotline are independent companies, not affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

The information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes only. Nothing on this webpage is intended to be, nor should be used as or relied upon as, professional medical advice. Nothing contained on this webpage is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. For medical advice, or to receive medical diagnosis or treatment, consult with your health care provider.

Go to Top