How to get low-cost/no-cost care

I have been suffering with depression for all of my adult life. It runs in my family, among other mental health conditions. I know that I need to get help, but not sure where to start since I have no health insurance. Also, it would probably help if I saw a therapist but last time I tried to talk with a school counselor I couldn't stop crying - probably nervous and anxiety all rolled into that too. I was wondering if anyone knew of a way to get care without paying a ton. Or are there online (legit) therapists that can help? I can write out my problems all day, but can't talk it out. Thanks for any help you can provide. I am glad that there is a community out here like this one.

[Hensley258]

Do you want talk therapy or are you looking for a way to get meds prescribed?

I'm not sure how to get low cost Psychotherapy, but if a med evaluation and antidepressant is what you need than that can be done pretty cheap.

[dusterjoe]

I would prefer to just get some meds. How do you get a low-cost med evaluation and antidepressants. I would hope this would take care of it. Thanks.

[buriedinfur]

While therapy is really tough at times, it's really helpful as well. Even if you can't do it face to face there are some really good books out there that if you follow the plan of action that they ask you to do in them can really help you out. Library's are great for this.

I bawl most sessions non-stop. Even when talking about ok things. And I HATE crying with a passion. Which makes me cry more of course, cause I'm mad and embarrassed that I'm crying.

However...many are in the same darn boat, so I know I'm not alone at least.

I've been clinically depressed on and off since I was 13 - so over 20 yrs. You do learn to manage it. Cognitive therapy was a real breath through for me with this, so in combination with me doing that and some meds to handle the chemical end of it (I have SAD) I do ok.

Do not hesitate to go into the local ER if things spiral out of control for you. Your brain chemicals are just playing nasty with you. Things will change.

[ILADVOCATE]

There are many health care options. If you are not working you could try applying for Medicaid. If you are working, google "Medicaid Buy in for Working People with Disabilities" and see if your state has this viable option. You can find out more about healthcare coverage at your local independent living center. There's one in every county of every state. Here's a list:
http***www.ilru.org/html/publications/directory/index.html