Teletherapy Expands Access to Mental Health Care
Counseling is a widely recommended and evidence-based treatment for those living with mental or behavioral health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, suicidality, substance misuse, and anger mismanagement. Workers in the construction industry are subject to experiencing these challenges — in some cases at even higher rates than the general population. According to research released by the Construction Industry Rehabilitation Plan, up to 83% of construction workers have experienced a moderate to severe mental health issue.
What happens when a worker wants help and is ready to seek counseling, but accessibility limitations make it challenging or even impossible to regularly attend in-person appointments? From changing work schedules and project locations that may be far away from home to provider shortages — especially in rural areas — construction workers face several potential barriers to receiving recurring outpatient mental health treatment services. One favorable but often overlooked solution to these limitations is teletherapy.
Teletherapy refers to counseling services provided by licensed mental health professionals through virtual means. While utilization of telehealth services has skyrocketed in recent years, many workers are hesitant to fully embrace teletherapy, dismissing it as a less effective or “impersonal” option. Dispelling these myths is crucial to helping construction workers more easily access needed mental health services, and ultimately enhance overall wellbeing.
Research shows that teletherapy is as effective as face-to-face counseling, and no significant differences were found between teletherapy and face-to-face counseling in terms of the quality of care, the therapeutic alliance and client satisfaction. Advantages of teletherapy include:
GREATER ACCESS TO HIGH QUALITY, ONGOING SERVICES
While working in remote areas or on projects that require travel, teletherapy allows for continuity of care from a greater provider pool.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS
In addition to affordable coverage offered through most insurance plans, teletherapy can help address secondary costs of in-person care, such as transportation costs, that can accumulate over time.
CONVENIENCE AND EASE
Most teletherapy platforms are relatively user friendly and easy to navigate. Teletherapy also offers the potential for immediacy, allows for increased flexibility, and better accommodates complicated or ever-changing schedules.
CAN HELP WITH STIGMA
Stigma is often a barrier to treatment for many workers in the construction industry. Teletherapy can be a meaningful step for those who may be interested in mental health treatment but are resistant to the idea of going into a therapy clinic or office.
While teletherapy may not be appropriate for all mental health challenges or needs, it is worth considering this valuable, and in many cases preferable treatment option for BAC members and their families.
Outside of teletherapy, technology continues to advance in ways that increasingly support worker wellbeing — with examples including online mental health screenings and smartphone apps. In an evolving mental health landscape, looking to new frontiers can improve and even save lives.
If you or a loved one needs mental health treatment or would like more information on teletherapy, please call MAP for free, confidential support at 1-833-MAP-TALK, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern.