Telehealth for Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Around 40 million people in the United States have an anxiety disorder.¹ There are several types of anxiety disorders. Anxiety symptoms can include:

• Worrying
• Fatigue
• Trouble breathing
• Fast heart rate

Can I get virtual therapy for anxiety?

You can have virtual therapy with a licensed mental health provider. They may be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. During appointments, providers may:

• Discuss symptoms
• Write prescriptions
• Give ways to manage symptoms
• Refer you to another specialist

You can choose a provider based on your needs. For example, you can choose a provider who speaks your language. Online therapy can help people overcome barriers to mental health treatment like appointment availability.

With virtual care, you do not have to go in person. You can select a provider who offers video appointments using your phone, computer, or tablet. Phone calls or email sessions may also be available. You can have regular sessions with the same provider. You can also switch providers at any time.

For some, anxiety makes it hard to do in-person therapy. Telehealth can be useful if you are too anxious to:

• Leave your home
• Drive
• Interact with people

What are the benefits of online therapy for anxiety?

Telehealth therapy can be an effective treatment for anxiety. Here are other benefits:

• Better access to therapy - Telehealth therapy offers a private space for mental health care. You can also see providers who aren’t in your city.
• As effective as in-person therapy - Telehealth therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for treating anxiety.²
• Flexible options - You can do virtual therapy on your own schedule. This makes it easier to participate in therapy sessions. Virtual appointments can take place anywhere, like at home. You don’t have to spend time driving to and from appointments.

Is virtual therapy covered by insurance?

Insurance may cover online therapy. This varies by state and health plan. Some providers only take certain forms of insurance. Check with your insurance provider to see if they cover online therapy.

You may have to pay a copay for your appointment. You may also need to meet your deductible. If your provider is out-of-network, you may have more out of pockets costs.

If you are a current Cigna Healthcare^SM customer, visit myCigna for cost information and to find an in-network provider.

Can I access telehealth for anxiety medication?

Providers can prescribe medications for anxiety during telehealth sessions if needed.

¹ Anxiety Disorders - Facts & Statistics, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, October 28, 2022, https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/facts-statistics

² New study proves the efficacy of telepsychiatry for anxiety and depression, Healthcare IT News, February 12, 2024, https://www.healthcareitnews.com/news/new-study-proves-efficacy-telepsychiatry-anxiety-and-depression