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Mental health resources and services available for employees, dependents

Mental health struggles are all too real, especially in today’s environment. Adults and children alike face these struggles every day, and many don’t know they can get help. It’s important to remember resources and treatments are available to assist those who may be suffering.

The Employee Assistance Program is available 24/7/365 for both employees and dependents.

  • SupportLinc: Penn State Health Employee Assistance Program, 888-881-5462
  • Health Advocate: Penn State College of Medicine Employee Assistance Program, 866-799-2728

Additionally, Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine employees and their dependents can access behavioral health services on the go using the Penn State Health OnDemand mobile app. Same-day, weekend, evening and holiday appointments are also available.

Penn State Health employees and dependents covered by Highmark Blue Shield will pay their normal $15 copay for a Behavioral Health OnDemand visit. Penn State College of Medicine employees still covered by Aetna until Dec. 31, please consult Aetna as the co-pay may be different, but the services are available to you. Services available through OnDemand include:

  • Mental health therapy – Employees and dependents ages 10 and up can see a licensed psychologist or counselor online to discuss anxiety, depression, grief and other common challenges. Sessions typically last 45 minutes. Therapists also can coordinate future virtual appointments with a psychiatrist as needed.
  • Psychiatry – Employees and dependents can receive a psychiatric assessment, evaluation and treatment from a licensed psychiatrist. An initial consultation lasts 45 minutes. Psychiatrists can also provide care and ongoing medication management for bipolar, cognitive, eating, obsessive-compulsive disorders and other conditions.

To schedule an appointment, employees and dependents must download the free Penn State Health OnDemand app, create an account and enter their insurance information. For help with account setup, call the virtual health concierge team at 1-833-774-3627.

Despite the resources that are available for help with recovery, some people give up completely and consider suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts or behaviors that are warning signs of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or call 911 immediately.

Helpless and hopeless feelings seem overwhelming, but they don’t last forever. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help. There are many mental health support services that can put you on the road to wellness.

If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email the Penn State College of Medicine web department.