I’m paying for the low deductible insurance at my company (higher cost, supposed to be better benefits). I made an appointment for diagnostic assessment at the beginning of the year, their next available appointment was SEPTEMBER 30. They called me yesterday with the estimated cost to me after insurance (I mean nice that they do that but you’ll see why…) It’s going to cost me $800.
Yeah ok. Guess I’ll just remain self-diagnosed.
I’m not being the change I want to see in the world for sure when I say this but I’m definitely scared to be “out” in any way regarding mental health struggles at work. The closest I’ve gotten is talking about anxiety and stress burnout, which I’ve been very careful to do in corporate-speak. I just feel like I can’t risk being seen as “at risk” of not being able to handle my work, even if that means I’m more at risk of that happening than if I was actually being supported. 😭
“Never trust HR” is a good policy. I keep my health to myself at work as well. I don’t need special treatment or accommodations, and I’m not working in a field where my meds would be a concern.
However you don’t need to go into detail. If you want to be completely discreet, ask for another copy of the HR benefits plan, then look through it yourself to see if you have separate mental health services coverage or a counseling hotline.
Once you’re talking to any insurers or care providers then HIPAA (assuming you’re in the US) takes over and your privacy is assured.
And like someone else said, set up an FSA if you haven’t already. It’s free money and makes high deductible plans sting less.
But worst comes to worst, you have to pay $800. That’s a decent amount of money. But think of it as an investment in yourself. You’ll see that $800 back when you feel less stressed about work and find it easier to advance in your career.