Ensuring the mental well-being of our youth is a top priority at Independence Blue Cross (IBX). We are taking proactive steps to support youth mental health by expanding our network of behavioral health providers and enhancing accessibility for children and teen members.
The Impact of Youth Mental Health
Unfortunately, issues like anxiety and depression are increasingly affecting children, teenagers, and young adults. The World Happiness Report 2024 even highlights a decline in happiness among young people in the U.S.
Shockingly, one in every six children has a diagnosable mental health condition.1 Additionally:
- Nearly 60 percent of youth with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment.2
- Non-white youths are 35 percent less likely to be diagnosed with major depression compared to white youths.3
- In 2023, over half of young adults ages 18 – 21 reported symptoms of anxiety or depression.4
The increase in behavioral health concerns for youth doesn’t just affect them. Parents, caregivers, and employers are also impacted, with many working parents missing work monthly to attend to their child’s mental health needs.5
To support the well-being of our young community members, IBX is redoubling its commitment to youth mental health by facilitating access to high-quality in-network behavioral health care.
Improved Care Navigation for Members
We understand the importance of early intervention and integrated care for the mental health of children and teens. That’s why we’ve streamlined the process to ensure they receive the necessary care promptly.
Members seeking guidance or care for their child’s behavioral health can rely on our Behavioral Health team. They can:
- Assess the child’s needs
- Provide information on in-network treatment options and resources
- Connect them with a Behavioral Health Case Manager for ongoing support
- Facilitate quick access to an appropriate in-network behavioral health provider
- Offer in-the-moment support during challenging times
Members can schedule appointments directly with in-network providers, with most appointments available within a week. Our network includes culturally responsive providers who deliver fast and high-quality care for general mental health concerns.
Expanding the IBX Behavioral Health Network
Since 2022, we have expanded the IBX behavioral health network by nearly 50%. This growth ensures improved access to both in-person and virtual care options. Our alliances with these providers guarantee that our members receive evidence-based care swiftly, benefiting children, adolescents, young adults, and families. Here are some of the providers:
Little Otter
Little Otter takes a family-first approach to virtual mental health care for children ages 0 – 14 and their families, including therapy and psychiatry. Their innovative platform offers wellness tools and a child therapy app. Little Otter’s site provides numerous resources for families.
Blackbird Health
Blackbird Health provides diagnostics and treatment for kids aged 2 – 26 dealing with social, developmental, and schooling challenges. They offer virtual and in-person services, including medication management and therapy for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more.
Handspring Health
Handspring Health offers virtual evidence-based care for kids aged 8 – 24 experiencing depression, family issues, and behavioral disorders. Their expert providers specialize in family psychotherapy and other therapies, collaborating with pediatricians and schools for coordinated care.
Hopscotch
Hopscotch provides virtual care for kids aged 1 – 26, offering talk therapy and play therapy through an online portal. They include parental training and family therapy for comprehensive treatment.
Joon
Joon offers virtual care for teens and young adults aged 13 – 26 struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress. Their licensed therapists create personalized treatment plans and provide skill-building resources and support for parents.
Supporting IBX Members Every Step of the Way
While we have made great strides in enhancing behavioral health services, our focus on young members and their families remains unwavering. We will continue to enhance our benefits and resources to ensure our members are well-informed and empowered to access these vital services when needed.
1 Daniel G. Whitney, PhD, and Mark D. Peterson, PhD, “US National and State-Level Prevalence of Mental Health Disorders and Disparities of Mental Health Care Use in Children,” JAMA
2 State of Mental Health in America, mhanational.org.
3 BCBSA Health of America Youth Mental Health Report, 2023.
4 The Implications of COVID-19 for Mental Health and Substance Use, KFF.org, March 2023.
5 Nationwide Children’s Hospital, “The Great Collide: The Impact of Children’s Mental Health on the Workplace,” Nationwide Foundation, Feb. 22, 2022.
Little Otter, Blackbird Health, Handspring Health, Hopscotch, and Joon are independent companies.
