The mental health support program for young and middle-aged people helps you relieve stress

        Does the pressure of work and life make you exhausted but unable to find an outlet? In fact, emotional adjustment and psychological care, like physical health, are worth paying attention to. This issue of 'Legal Column' introduces the government's newly launched 'Youth Mental Health Support Program', which helps people find a way to relieve stress in their busy lives.

        According to data from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, common mental illnesses among the public include depression, anxiety, etc. Among them, the prevalence rate is highest in the 30-45 age group, as these young people are entering the "sandwich group" and facing various pressures such as economic burden, role conflict and tension, and work status. The proportion of people seeking medical treatment for mental conditions has increased by 11.7% from 105 to 111 years ago. From this, it can be seen that the mental health of the young and middle-aged generation urgently needs social attention.

        Seeking professional assistance not only helps maintain a good psychological state, but also enhances the quality of life and work. The following is an introduction to the "Youth Psychological Health Support Program" and related common Q&A, providing reference for the public in need.

        1、 Scheme Introduction

        1. Subsidy recipients: People aged 15 to 45.

        2. Subsidy period: From now until December 31, 2025.

        3. Subsidy amount and standards:

        The maximum subsidy for psychological counseling is NTD 1600 per session, and the counseling time is at least 40 minutes per session.

        Each person is limited to three subsidies during the duration of this program.

        2、 How to use it? Mastering 4 Steps to Easily Schedule Psychological Counseling

                1. Search: Go to the official website of the "Youth Mental Health Support Program" to inquire about the cooperating institutions.

        2. Appointment: Contact partner institutions to schedule services.

        3. Preparation: Bring identification documents for verification.

        4. Counseling: Attend professional counseling in person or through communication.

        3、 Precautions

        1. The subsidy does not include registration fees and administrative fees. Please confirm with the institution before making an appointment.

        2.3 consultations must be completed within 3 months, with a minimum interval of 7 days between each consultation and no more than 1 month.

        4、 Frequently Asked Questions

        Q1: Can I still apply for a subsidy if I am over 45 years old when booking my second or third service?

        A1: Yes, as long as the service age meets the requirements of this plan when receiving the first counseling service, the subsidy can still be applied for the second or third counseling service, but the service time must be within the processing period of this plan (August 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025).

        Q2: Can I choose a partner institution outside of my place of residence for psychological counseling?

        A2: Yes, this scheme has no restrictions on registered residence or the county or city of residence.

        Q3: Can I change my partner institution for psychological counseling midway?

        A3: Yes, but the total number of subsidies is limited to 3 times, and the actual number of subsidies received must be reported.

        Q4: Can I still participate in the "Youth Mental Health Support Program" if I have already used the "Youth Mental Health Support Program" three times before for psychological counseling services?

        A4: Yes, the subsidy frequency for this plan (3 times) will be calculated independently from the processing period (August 1, 2024 to December 31, 2025).

        Q5: Can foreigners use this program?

        A5: In order to facilitate the subsequent referral of high-risk cases to medical care, foreign nationals who are eligible for health insurance can also use this program, but they must present their health insurance card during consultation for confirmation by the cooperating institution.

        Q6: Why is it necessary to collect personal information (including questionnaire content) when using this program?

        A6: In order to evaluate the effectiveness of this plan and ensure the medical rights of the public, the cooperating institution collects personal data (including the results of psychological health questionnaire evaluation), but the collected data will not be used for other purposes, and in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Law, the security of personal data files will be maintained.

        In modern society, the pace is fast and pressure is everywhere. Seeking psychological support in a timely manner can make the mind healthier and life better. Many young adults may find it difficult to express their feelings when facing life pressure. It is recommended to seek the assistance of professional psychologists in a timely manner to maintain physical and mental health, making mental health a more stable support and welcoming a better life! (Source: Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Health and Welfare)

        The official website of the Youth Mental Health Support Program: https://sps.mohw.gov.tw/mhs

        *Image source: Freepik

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