A survey conducted by VeryWell Mind found that affording treatment is a significant concern to 49 percent of those surveyed. Almost all of that 49 percent said they would have to discontinue treatment if their out-of-pocket costs were to increase. Over one-third of patients surveyed who used to be in therapy stopped because of cost-related reasons.
"The cost of mental health services is a big hurdle that causes many people to delay treatment or stop treatment prematurely," said Amy Morin, editor-in-chief of Verywell Mind. "Addressing the direct and indirect costs of treatment, especially for the most vulnerable in our society, will bring us one step closer to care that's truly equitable for all."
Some other highlights of the survey were:
- Forty-nine percent of Americans currently in therapy say they're worried about paying for their treatment long-term.
- Forty-eight percent say they'd have to stop attending sessions if their out-of-pocket costs increase.
- Thirty-eight percent have had to receive financial help from someone else in order to pay for therapy.
- Thirty-eight percent used vacation or paid time off work to attend therapy.
- Thirty-nine percent have reduced the frequency of therapy sessions to reduce costs.
- Thirty-three percent have canceled therapy sessions due to out-of-pocket costs.
- Thirty-one percent have temporarily stopped going to therapy because they need to save money for a larger expense.Click here to view Verywell Mind's "Cost of Therapy Survey."