Editor’s note: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. This resource connects you with trained counselors who can help you get the help you need, 24/7.
Staying healthy is more than just taking care of your body. Even when you feel physically well, you may notice that you are extremely sad, anxious, or exhausted. If so, you may be experiencing symptoms of a mental health concern—and you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental illness.
TRICARE covers mental health services so you and your family can get the care you need. Using these covered services can help you get on a path to mental and physical wellness.
“Taking care of your mental health is key to your overall well-being,” said Thomas Turnbaugh, LCSW-C, a behavioral health specialist at the Defense Health Agency. “If you notice you’re feeling different than usual — or if you’re dealing with a lot of stress — contact your provider right away to learn how you can get professional care.”
Here is more information about mental health services covered by TRICARE and how you can access them.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger of harming yourself or others, this is a mental health emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You do not need a referral or prior authorization. Just be sure to contact your regional TRICARE contractor within 24 hours (or the next business day) to coordinate care.
Before seeking non-urgent care, talk with your primary care provider to determine which services are right for you. And check which services require a referral or prior authorization.
Your options for getting non-emergency mental health care depend on your beneficiary category and health plan:
- Active duty service members (ADSM): You should first seek non-emergency care at a military hospital or clinic. If you receive services from a civilian provider, you will need a referral or prior authorization. ADSMs may also request a mental health evaluation by making a request to their supervisor. You do not need to explain why you are requesting one and your information will remain confidential.
- All others with Prime Minister TRICARE: You do not need a referral to see a network provider for office-based outpatient mental health services. Active duty family members can receive non-emergency care from TRICARE-authorized non-network providers without referrals. But point of service charges will apply.
- TRICARE Select: You can see any TRICARE-authorized provider for mental health services. But your out-of-pocket costs will be lower if you see a network provider.
- TRICARE For Life: You do not need a referral or preauthorization from TRICARE in most cases. That’s because Medicare is the primary payer for mental health care. But if your Medicare benefits have run out, you’ll need a referral or prior authorization from TRICARE before you can get mental health care.
Still not sure if you need a referral or prior authorization before receiving care? Visit Referrals and Prior Authorizations to learn more.
TRICARE covers certain outpatient and inpatient mental health services, as detailed in TRICARE Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Services Fact Sheet.
Outpatient services
Outpatient treatment is available at some military hospitals and clinics. You can also get care from TRICARE-authorized civilian providers. Appointments can be made in person or via telemedicine.
Some types of covered outpatient treatment include:
Hospital services
You may need more intensive treatment that requires you to stay in a hospital or treatment center. If so, TRICARE covers:
Looking for a complete list of covered mental health services? You can find more information on covered treatments. Or you can search for specific services on the Covered Services page.
Note: Some mental health services may not be available overseas. Check with your TRICARE Overseas contractor for more information.
Use the Compare Costs tool to check your out-of-pocket costs for mental health services. You’ll have lower costs by getting care at military hospitals or clinics or from TRICARE-authorized network providers. ADSMs do not charge for mental health services provided by or authorized by the Military Health System.
Mental health is health – and it’s an important part of your overall well-being. Looking for a mental health provider? Check out the Find a Doctor tool. You can also find more resources and information on TRICARE’s Mental Health Care page.
Want the latest TRICARE news emailed to you? Visit TRICARE subscriptionsand create your own personalized profile to receive benefit updates, news and more.
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