Top Benefits to Support Your Mental Health

Roughly 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. reported experiencing mental illness in the past year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).¹ But despite such high rates, 41% of Americans still remain untreated.² Why are so many refusing to seek help?

The reality is that many forego treatment due to high costs, even if they have primary medical insurance. Fortunately, there are a few supplemental benefits that could help offset some out-of-pocket expenses for mental health treatment.

Exploring Supplemental Benefits for Mental Health

When a mental health issue or emergency arises, it may feel overwhelming and affect your emotions, thoughts, and how you handle everyday life. Using your benefits may make a huge difference when finding care to get through tough times and feel more like yourself again.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

While treatment costs remain a barrier to mental health treatment, a Health Savings Account (HSA) may offer a tax-savvy way to help ease financial strain. If you have a qualified high-deductible health plan (HDHP), you may already have access to an HSA or be eligible to open one. HSAs offer a triple tax benefit:

Contributions are tax-deductible
Funds grow tax-free if invested
Withdrawals for eligible medical expenses are tax-free

HSAs have no spending deadlines and the funds are portable, meaning you can take them with you if you change jobs. These advantages make HSAs an excellent tool for managing medical expenses, including mental health care.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-qualified medical expenses include psychotherapy, psychiatric care, prescribed medications for mental health conditions, and even related expenses like travel for medical appointments. You can also use your HSA to pay for diagnostic tests, sleep studies, or specialized treatment for substance abuse or other disorders.

To ensure IRS compliance and avoid penalties, always save itemized receipts for HSA expenses you incur. By leveraging your HSA, you can prioritize your mental health while minimizing out-of-pocket costs, making it easier to take proactive steps toward your mental well-being.

Check out more eligible HSA and FSA expenses >

Disability Income Insurance

Disability insurance could be a vital safety net for managing mental health conditions, including mood, anxiety, eating, and psychotic disorders. These conditions may require varied levels of treatment, such as residential care, day programs, outpatient therapy, or psychiatric appointments. In addition to supporting your mental health care, disability insurance can also provide coverage for treatment of related conditions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Some individuals may need extended time off for intensive care, while others might only require occasional absences for therapy sessions or check-ins with a psychiatrist. Either way, having disability insurance can help empower you to seek the treatment you need without the fear of losing financial stability.

Many policies cover up to 60% of your salary during periods when you’re unable to work, offering both financial relief and peace of mind during challenging times. The specifics of coverage—such as the benefit period and income replacement—depend on your specific policy, but many plans include tailored support for mental health-related disabilities. This type of insurance may serve as a lifeline, allowing you to prioritize recovery and healing.

Learn more about how disability insurance may help support mental health treatment >

Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML)

Balancing work and family responsibilities can significantly impact mental health, especially during unexpected family medical crises. Stress, anxiety, and depression are common outcomes, with employee requests for leave or accommodations related to mental health issues increasing by 70% over the past year, according to a recent report by Littler.⁴ Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) programs offer a vital solution with job protection and partial income replacement for employees who need to step away from work to care for themselves or loved ones. By reducing financial worries and enabling flexibility, PFML could help you navigate caregiving duties without sacrificing your mental well-being. This support fosters improved work-life balance, stronger family bonds, and prevents chronic stress, which can lead to long-term mental health issues.

Beyond practical benefits, PFML plays an essential role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace. Employers offering paid leave signal empathy and understanding, creating more inclusive and compassionate work environments. As mental health conversations become more normalized, workplaces are evolving to meet the needs of employees. PFML not only enhances benefits programs but also promotes happier, healthier workforces while supporting regulatory shifts toward mental health awareness. Ultimately, these initiatives empower employees like you to prioritize therapy, treatment, and self-care, while contributing to a society that values mental health as much as physical health.

Learn more about paid leave’s role in supporting mental health >

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a valuable workplace benefit that provides confidential support to employees dealing with personal, emotional, or work-related challenges. These programs often include access to counseling, stress management tools, crisis support, and referrals to specialized services such as therapists or financial advisors. By addressing issues like anxiety, burnout, and grief, EAPs empower employees to seek help early, reducing the risk of long-term mental health struggles. Additionally, they offer practical resources such as legal and financial advice to ease burdens that can impact both personal and professional well-being. In the U.S., 53% of American workers have access to an EAP benefit, underscoring the growing importance of mental health support as a key component of workplace wellness.⁵

EAPs are not just an added benefit—they’re a proactive tool for employers to foster mental health, reduce stigma, and enhance workplace culture. When employees feel supported, they’re more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their jobs. Organizations with effective EAPs report an average retention rate increase of 12-15% over five years, as these programs help address employee stress and personal challenges, leading to higher job satisfaction and loyalty.⁶ For employers, this means reduced absenteeism, improved retention, and a stronger, more resilient workforce. If your company offers an EAP, don’t hesitate to take advantage of this confidential resource. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and these programs are designed to help you thrive both at work and in life.

Learn more about EAPs and other benefit strategies >

Think about what you might need now or in the future for your mental health. Look at how different benefit options may meet these needs and choose the ones that fit best with your situation if you have access to them. Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your body.

This blog is up to date as of June 2025 and has not been updated for changes in the law, administration or current events.