Mental Health Help Available

Several organizations have partnered with Mental Health America of Lancaster County (MHALC) to offer four solutions for unmet mental health needs. Some programs are only available for a limited time, so residents are encouraged to contact agencies right away.

Community Mental Health Assistance Program (CMAP) is a service for essential workers in Lancaster County. If someone is struggling emotionally during this pandemic, having challenges at work, or facing difficulties with their family life, then the MHALC program can provide individuals with three no-cost telemedicine visits with a mental health professional. An essential worker is defined by CMAP as any working resident or resident whose work status was affected by COVID-19 in Lancaster County. This program is made possible through grant funding from The Steinman Foundation through the end of 2020. For more information, readers may visit https://mhalancaster.org/our-programs/cmap-essential-workers/.

The Medication Assistance Program offers financial assistance for those Lancaster County residents who are unable to afford medication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assistance is available for both adults and children. Individuals are encouraged to communicate the type of medication, even if they are uncertain about their eligibility. Requests for assistance can be made by contacting 717-397-7461 or mha@mhalancaster.org. Limited restrictions apply. Readers may learn more at http://www.mhalancaster.org/medication-assistance-program/. This program is made possible through grant funding from Lancaster Cares.

As part of this bundle from MHALC, individuals can be referred to the Mental Health Co-Pay Assistance Program at LOHF. This program offers help meeting copay costs for appointments with therapists and other mental health care professionals. Thanks to a Lancaster Cares grant, LOHF has expanded eligibility to include any Lancaster County resident who is financially impacted by COVID-19, regardless of age or dependents. The program is only for appointments with licensed mental health care providers and reduces the cost to just $10 per visit. It does not cover medications or medical appointments. For more information, readers may visit http://www.lohf.org.

MHALC has many peer-led groups that are meeting weekly to provide support, education, and mentoring. The groups include depression (men/women), bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, panic, women's depression and postpartum support. The groups are free, confidential, and ongoing. Attendees may join the meetings by phone or by Zoom for video and audio connection. Readers may contact MHALC at the aforementioned phone number or email address, or they may visit https://mhalancaster.org/need-help/support-groups/ to learn more about the support groups offered.

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