After several difficult years, life is returning to some semblance of normalcy. But many people have lingering mental health challenges from the pandemic. Family and work stress can impart feelings of anxiety, depression and hopelessness.

New thinking about the connection between physical and mental health has changed the way providers are helping patients. Practitioners are abundantly aware of how important mental health is for keeping people fit and happy throughout their lives.

Aetna Covers Mental Health

Fortunately, Aetna customers who are having mental health challenges have exciting news: Aetna now covers a wide array of mental health issues, including individual therapy, group therapy and many emergency treatments. If you are unsure about whether a particular treatment is covered, it is a simple matter of calling the number on your care card and speaking with an advisor.

If you participate in an employee assistance program (EAP), they can also help you with up-front questions about your coverage.

What types of mental health disorders does Aetna cover?

By far the most common mental health problems are depression and anxiety. Certain forms of depression can become severe and manifest as major depressive disorder (MDD), so if you or a loved one suspects that you may need care, it is vital to reach out to a practitioner as soon as possible.

In addition to depression and anxiety, Aetna covers many other common mental health disorders, including:

• PTSD arising from highly stressful incidents earlier in life
• affective disorders
• Many forms of substance abuse
• Bipolar disorder
• OCD
• Panic disorder and panic attacks

Aetna works with a wide range of providers

Although Aetna does require that your provider is part of its in-network roster, many types of licensed providers can be covered. The most common types of practitioners include:

• Clinic Social Workers (LCSWs)
• Psychiatrists
• Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs)
• Clinical Psychologists
• Registered Nurses
• Chemical Dependency Counselors

While Aetna provides wide-ranging mental health coverage and access to many types of providers, it is important to check with regard to the scope of your coverage, including important information relating to co-pays and inpatient care.