- Categories:
- Health
- Tags:
- FinancialMental Health
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every January 21
- Holiday emoji:
- 🧠
National Check Your Coverage Day, observed every January 21, urges you to understand your mental health insurance benefits. Millions face barriers to care, but knowing your coverage can unlock vital services. Take action today: review your policy, understand your options, and access the support you deserve.
Want to sponsor National Check Your Coverage Day? Learn how
History of National Check Your Coverage Day
Mental health stigmas are gradually fading as awareness grows and seeking therapy for mental health conditions becomes more normalized. Many U.S. adults experience depression, anxiety, or some other mental or emotional condition. However, a 2019 American Psychological Association survey states that “87% agreed that having a mental health disorder is nothing to be ashamed of.” Additionally, the CDC reports that more Americans have received mental health treatment since 2019, especially younger adults and women, and SAMHSA reveals that the percentage of adults receiving mental health treatment has climbed from 21.8% in the 2022 survey to 23% in 2023.
But here’s the catch: Over half of adults with a mental illness still don’t receive treatment, which, according to Mental Health America’s “The State of Mental Health in America, 2023 Key Findings,” totals over 28 million individuals. West Health/Gallup reports that this is primarily due to the high costs associated with therapy as well as difficulty finding providers.
National Check Your Coverage Day on January 21 encourages you to find out what your health insurance covers and gain access to their mental health care services right at your fingertips.
Online therapy offers a convenient way to access mental health care, with many major insurers, including Aetna, Cigna, and Optum, covering these services with minimal or no copay.
National Check Your Coverage Day timeline
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) of 2008 mandates that health insurance providers offer equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorders as they do for physical health.
Mental Health America’s “The State of Mental Health in America, 2023 Key Findings,” show that over half (54.7%) of adults with a mental illness don’t receive treatment, totaling over 28 million individuals.
Rock Health reports that Telehealth adoption (accessing care via telemedicine) rose to 80% from 72% in 2021.
West Health/Gallup reports that the top reasons Americans cite for not receiving care are the cost of treatment not being affordable and difficulty finding providers.
51% percent of U.S. adult survey respondents report that they’ve experienced depression, anxiety, or some other mental or emotional condition in the past 12 months, according to West Health/Gallup.
Mental Health America’s “The State of Mental Health in America” states that cost is still a significant barrier to accessing mental health care and 1 in 4 adults in frequent mental distress can’t see a doctor due to cost—a 2% increase over the last report.
SAMHSA’s survey shows that the percentage of adults receiving mental health treatment has climbed from 21.8% in the 2022 survey to 23% in 2023.
To encourage you to check your coverage and receive access to convenient and affordable online therapy and psychiatry, Talkspace establishes and sponsors National Check Your Coverage Day and the first celebration takes place. Want to be a sponsor: learn how.
National Check Your Coverage Day FAQs
When is National Check Your Coverage Day?
In 2027, National Check Your Coverage Day is observed on Thursday, January 21. This annual observance encourages proactive review of healthcare coverage.
How many Americans struggle with mental health?
The prevalence of mental illness continues to be a significant concern, with millions of adults and youth affected. In 2027, advocates continue to push for greater access and reduced stigma.
Is mental health coverage mandated by law?
While parity laws exist, navigating the specifics of mental health coverage can still be complex. In 2027, ongoing efforts aim to strengthen these mandates and ensure equitable access to care across all plans.
What should I look for when checking my mental health coverage?
For 2027, it’s crucial to verify if your plan covers telehealth and online therapy, which have become increasingly common. Additionally, understand the process for referrals and pre-authorizations for specialized mental health treatments.
National Check Your Coverage Day Activities
Check your coverage
Check to see if your insurance plan or organization covers. Many major insurers, like Aetna, Cigna, and Optum, cover their services with little to no copay.
Sign up for therapy
There's a vast network of therapists and psychiatric providers who specialize in various conditions, treatment approaches, and mental health needs. Simply answer a few questions online and you can be matched with the best therapist almost immediately.
Explore other health insurance companies
Perhaps your health insurance company isn’t meeting your needs when it comes to mental health care coverage? Now’s a great time to research and explore other options that may be a better fit for you.
What are the Benefits of Online Therapy?
No commute time and scheduling hassles
There’s no need to sit in traffic on your way to a therapist’s office or navigate busy schedules. Online therapy takes place at your convenience, right from your device. You can easily book a session when it works for you, whenever you need it.
No lengthy therapist searches
Say goodbye to long searches for the perfect therapist. You can be connected to licensed therapists and you don't have to wait weeks for an appointment—start receiving support straight away.
Easily switch providers
Finding the right therapist is key to making progress. If you feel your current provider isn't the best fit, its easy to make the switch.
National Check Your Coverage Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | January 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | January 21 | Friday |
| 2029 | January 21 | Sunday |
| 2030 | January 21 | Monday |
| 2031 | January 21 | Tuesday |
