This BlueCross and BlueShield article is being reprinted here with permission for the convenience of UHD employees.

If you struggle with depression during the holidays, know that you are not alone. The holidays can be stressful and especially hard for those affected by mental illness.

According to a 2021 poll conducted on behalf of the American Psychiatric Association, Americans are five times more likely to say their level of stress increases (41%) rather than decreases (7%) during the holidays.

As a HealthSelect^SM participant, you have options for taking care of your mental health during difficult times.

If your situation is life-threatening, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room.

If you or your covered dependent(s) are in a crisis situation, the following resources are available:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: You can access the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or through online chat at www.988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available to listen, provide support and connect you to resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For TTY users: dial 711 then 988 or use your preferred relay service.

24/7 Mental Health Line: If you or your covered dependent(s) are in a crisis situation and need immediate help to find resources for care, call (800) 252-8039 (TTY: 711) and ask to speak to a mental health clinician, or follow the prompts to get help with a mental health or substance use issue 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you are not in an emergency situation, consider these valuable resources for taking care of yourself this holiday season and beyond.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas care management clinicians can help you understand and follow your treatment plan, answer questions and share health and wellness resources. Call toll-free (800) 252-8039 (TTY:711) between 8 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. CT, Monday – Friday, and ask to speak with a clinician.

Questions?

If you have any questions about your mental health benefits, call a BCBSTX Personal Health Assistant toll-free at (800) 252-8039 (TTY 711), Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. CT. and Saturday, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. CT.

You can also communicate via secure chat and secure messaging Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CT., after logging into Blue Access for Members^SM.