[mlpHolmes]

I would like to present various ways you can receive mental health care with little to no money, and find ways to financial assistance.

1. Find a Community Mental Health Clinic - Services typically include Psychiatric visits, Therapy, Payment Plans, Housing or assisted-living arrangements, Job training and placement for people who can work,
Transportation, Assistance securing Social Security and disability benefits.
Contact your local, county, & state Mental Health Association telephone directory.
Or a complete directory at www.nmha.org or National Mental Health Association at: 1-800-969-06642.

2. University Programs - often on the leading edge of research, provide latest treatment, may offer free treatment especially if you participate in a study.
* Suggestion* Because it is a teaching & learning environment,
there will be trainees so keep in touch with the supervising physician or psychitrist, especially if medications are involved.

3. Find Peer Support - Everyone has something valuable & unique to teach you. It can be a relief to be with people from whom you don't have to hide the fact that sometimes you need help.

4. Contact Religious Organization - Very often have qualified counselors on staff who can provide therapy and other assistance for free or at a reduced cost, member or not.

5. Obtain State Medical Assistance (((More info coming!!! ))))
Holmes

[(JD)]

Good post!

You have a resource at your local hospital: the social worker(s) can help you access any program you might be eligible for, or other resources that might be able to help you.

[mlpHolmes]

6. **Be sure to check Doc John's article:
"Finding Low-Cost Psychotherapy" at Psych Central. Web site:

http://psychcentral.com/lib/2007find...psychotherapy/

[mlpHolmes]

8. File for Disability & Medicaid You or loved one disabled by bipolar disorder or other medical illnesses.

More information can be found at:www.ssa.gov or 1-800-772-1213. Please check with your local Social Security Office, details differ state to state.

9. Check out the "Insure Kids Now!" Program

If you cannot afford to insure a dependent child, the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services sponsors this program!! It helps states provide
low-cost or no-cost insurance to qualifying families.

www.helpingpatients.org dedicated to helping low-income or uninsured patients free or affordable medications, non-profit organization.

Qualify for Medicare? www.medicare.gov/AssistancePrograms for a Prescription (Rx) Card.

Pharmaceutical companies offer their own prescription (Rx) assistance programs!!
Your Dr. &/or pharmacist, & sometimes on the Rx label you will find the manufacturer of the medication. Go online, or phone book, sometimes you Dr. will call!!

Search web for "prescription assistance program" - you will find links to other companiesthat provide Rx cards, generic meds and other cost-savings plans.

**Good One** Many pharmaceutical companies give doctors a good supply of free samples of medications. Your Dr. may be able to supply you with free samples!!!

Some psychitrists and therapists offer payment plans that allow their patients to pay off their bills gradually, or at discount rate! Many clinics and universities and some private practitioners offfer a sliding scale, where the fee is based on your ability to pay. They often work with insurance companies for those who have no insurance.

Live In Love,
Holmes

Call 800-543-7669 or www. insurekidsnow.gov for more info!

**Tip&Hint** Trying to get healthcare for yourself and/or your family can be extrememly frustrating, even with a clear head. If you are ill, now is the time to call a friend or a family member to help you with this challenging process.

10. Locate a Prescription Assistance Program

(This is Fantastic!!!! IMHO).

Sometimes you may have the choice between food or medication. When you rely on medication to stabilize you moods and give you a chance at earning a living--> Help is available!!!

Several pharmaceutical companies, healthcare groups, and local roganizations offer prescription assistance programs that provide prescription medication at no cost or at discount prices. **Tip** To save you some time! You will probably need: Dr's written consent, proof you have no insurance or your insurance does not cover prescriptions or the medication you need. Financial info. needed.

[Taonuviel]

For #10!
http://www.rxhope.com