Florida Blue (BCBS of Florida) Depression Therapy and Treatment

Florida and Depression Statistics

Between February 1 and 13, 2023, 32.3% of Florida adults exhibited symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorders. In May 2022, 23.6% of Floridian adults with depression and anxiety symptoms didn’t receive counseling in the past four weeks. Depression affects 180,000 individuals aged 12–17 in Florida, with 64.2% not receiving any care in the last year.

About 17.8% of Florida adults have been diagnosed with depressive disorders, including major depression and dysthymia—approximately 1% experience seasonal affective disorder. Over 14% of Florida’s 16.7 million adults, equivalent to 2.3 million individuals, have been diagnosed with depression, rising to nearly one in five women in Polk County. The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration reports mental health workforce shortages in 161 locations across 32 Florida counties.

Some BCBS Brands, Products, and Services

Within the BCBS network, a wide range of brands, products, and services is available to meet the healthcare requirements of millions of Americans. These entities serve specific regions and offer comprehensive health insurance products and services, encompassing individual and group plans, Medicare options, and innovative wellness and mental health solutions.

• Florida Blue is the BCBS brand serving Florida residents, offering health insurance plans, including PPO (preferred provider organization) and HMO (health maintenance organization), and services, like health savings accounts (HSAs), to individuals, families, and businesses.
• The BlueCard Program provides access to healthcare providers almost everywhere, even outside the Florida Blue service area, ensuring peace of mind.³
• BlueOptions offers various health coverage options with varying coverage levels and networks, including in and out-of-network coverage.⁴
• BlueSelect offers a healthcare network of selected providers and cost-effective options.
• The BlueCare HMO plan stands out for its convenience and affordability, emphasizing preventive care and early diagnosis to keep costs predictable with predetermined copayments.
• BlueMedicare offers Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, and prescription drug coverage for eligible beneficiaries in Florida.
• Better You Strides rewards program assists members in enhancing their holistic well-being, encompassing physical and emotional wellness. Members can personalize their health journey, aligning it with their needs, objectives, and interests.⁵
• MyBlue Health supports Florida Blue members in managing health, chronic conditions, and healthcare expenses, such as insurance premiums.

Partial Hospitalization Program for Depression Treatment

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) provides intensive outpatient treatment and comprehensive services for individuals requiring more than standard outpatient care but who don’t need 24-hour assistance. This program integrates therapeutic interventions, including individual and group therapy, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management, to stabilize mental health and develop coping strategies for depression while facilitating a smooth transition back to daily life.

Typically, Florida Blue includes coverage for PHPs as part of their behavioral and mental health benefits, although the specifics of coverage may vary based on your plan and other factors. It is recommended that you review your insurance policy details for more information on the extent of coverage for partial hospitalization programs with your Florida Blue insurance plan.

Intensive Outpatient Program for Depression Treatment

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a treatment option providing comprehensive services for individuals requiring more assistance than standard outpatient care. Participants attend scheduled sessions, often for multiple hours a day, several days a week, all while residing at home. Florida Blue usually includes coverage for IOPs, although the specifics vary depending on the plan. To verify details, call 877-958-9212.

Outpatient Program for Depression Treatment

An outpatient program offers a less intensive approach to treatment, allowing individuals to receive therapy and support while continuing to reside at home. This option is suitable for those who do not require constant supervision or an inpatient setting. Participants can address their concerns through various therapeutic methods such as counseling, group therapy, and psychiatric evaluations while maintaining routines.

Florida Blue frequently includes outpatient programs and services in its benefits. Although coverage specifics vary based on individual plans and other factors, Florida Blue acknowledges the significance of outpatient care in depression treatment. Review your policy details to understand the extent of coverage for outpatient programs, including any limitations or exclusions. For guidance, call 877-958-9212.

Residential Treatment for Depression Treatment

Residential treatment treatment for depression involves receiving comprehensive mental health care within a residential facility, where you or your loved one will reside for an extended period. This setting allows for intensive therapeutic interventions, structured activities, and 24/7 support, making it suitable for those requiring more supervision and intervention than outpatient settings can provide.

Typically, Florida Blue includes coverage for residential inpatient treatment for depression. However, specific coverage details vary depending on the individual’s circumstances and plan. You should review your policy documents or call 877-958-9212 to understand the extent of coverage and any potential requirements for approval.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder), or PDD, is an enduring mood disorder marked by continual experiences of sadness, hopelessness, and diminished interest or pleasure in daily activities. In adults, PDD symptoms endure for a minimum of two years, while in children and adolescents, the duration extends to at least one year.

Although the symptoms of PDD may not be as severe as those of major depression, the long-lasting nature of the disorder can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.⁷ Florida Blue typically covers PDD treatment, which commonly includes a combination of psychotherapy and antidepressant medications.

Perinatal (Postpartum) Depression

Perinatal or postpartum depression constitutes a distinct form of clinical depression occurring during pregnancy or in the weeks or months following childbirth. It encompasses various emotional and physical symptoms, including enduring feelings of sadness, anxiety, and despair. Women experiencing perinatal depression may also grapple with changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty bonding with their newborn, and overwhelming fatigue.

Effective postpartum depression treatment involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) addresses negative thoughts, while interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on improving relationships. Antidepressant medications may be prescribed in severe cases, and support groups provide valuable peer support for depression. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments, self-care, and involving loved ones in treatment play crucial roles.⁸ Florida Blue typically covers postpartum depression treatment, acknowledging the importance of supporting and treating this condition.

Psychotic Depression

Psychotic depression, a severe manifestation of major depressive disorder (MDD), is characterized by profound feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in daily activities, coupled with psychotic symptoms. These symptoms encompass delusions—false beliefs—and hallucinations—involving perceptions of things that do not exist.

It is important to receive prompt and comprehensive care to treat psychotic depression, which may involve a combination of antipsychotic and antidepressant medications, along with psychotherapy to address both the depressive and psychotic aspects of the condition.⁹ Florida Blue typically covers the treatment for psychotic depression.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically manifests during the autumn and winter seasons. It is believed that changes in light exposure can disrupt the body’s internal clock, leading to neurotransmitter imbalances that regulate mood. Symptoms of SAD include low energy, irritability, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleep patterns, and a persistent low mood.¹⁰

Florida Blue usually covers the treatment for SAD. The treatment may include psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or light therapy (phototherapy), which involves exposure to a bright light that imitates natural sunlight. Antidepressants and other medication options may also be used.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by intense mood swings, alternating between mania and depression. Individuals go through phases of heightened energy and impulsivity during manic episodes, followed by periods of profound sadness and hopelessness during depressive episodes. The intensity and frequency vary, and managing the disorder necessitates a lifelong approach involving a combination of mood-stabilizing medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments.¹¹

Florida Blue typically covers bipolar disorder treatment, including a range of medications to stabilize mood. Psychotherapy, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), may be covered to help individuals manage the psychological distress and interpersonal aspects of the disorder.