How do you get help for someone that has no money but needs mental evaluation and to see a doctor?
In the United States, there are a few ways to get help for someone who has no money but needs a mental evaluation and to see a doctor.
1. Contact your local community mental health center. Community mental health centers provide a variety of services to people with mental illness, regardless of their ability to pay. Services may include psychiatric evaluation, counseling, medication management, and case management.
- To find a community mental health center, visit the website of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or call their helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
2. Go to a hospital emergency room. If the person is experiencing a mental health crisis, they can go to a hospital emergency room. The emergency room staff will evaluate the person and provide treatment if necessary.
- If the person is not in immediate danger, they can call their primary care doctor or a mental health professional to get a referral to a hospital emergency room.
3. Contact your state Medicaid office. Medicaid is a government health insurance program that provides coverage for low-income people. If the person is eligible for Medicaid, they may be able to get coverage for mental health services.
- To find out if you are eligible for Medicaid, visit the website of your state Medicaid office or call their helpline.
4. Look into private health insurance plans. If the person is not eligible for Medicaid, they may be able to purchase a private health insurance plan that covers mental health services.
- Many private health insurance plans offer coverage for mental health services, but the cost of the plan will vary depending on the level of coverage and the deductible.
5. Seek help from a faith-based organization. Some faith-based organizations offer mental health services to people in need.
- To find a faith-based organization that offers mental health services, contact your local church or synagogue or visit the website of the National Association of Christians in Social Work (NACSW).
6. Reach out to a local mental health advocacy organization. Mental health advocacy organizations can provide support and resources to people with mental illness and their families.
- To find a mental health advocacy organization in your area, visit the website of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) or call their helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).