Dear Editor,
As someone who has the privilege of receiving medical insurance through my job, I am aware of the peace of mind that comes with it. Credit counseling and financial education are also part of my job, and I understand how crucial they are. This May, as we continue to observe Mental Health Awareness Month, I am writing to bring attention to employer-sponsored compensation plans, which are the primary means of caring for nearly half of Alabama’s residents.
Comprehensive coverage plans that include access to mental health care can be life-changing for those who need it. The growing mental health crisis is affecting not only adults but also children, as seen in my hometown of Trussville. We need to eliminate the stigma around mental health and make it easier for our friends and family to access this life-saving care without feeling ashamed.
Employer-provided insurance plans are vital in ensuring that working Americans and their families have the necessary financial aid for healthcare. With the current state of the mental health crisis, it is imperative that we find solutions to this crisis before it claims more lives. This Mental Health Awareness Month is a perfect opportunity to prioritize our efforts towards better mental healthcare access across the country, including Alabama.
For many of us, accessing mental health insurance through our employer is the first step towards healing. Let us protect vulnerable children and do everything possible to address this crisis.
Sincerely,
Vicky Bailey