Extended Health Insurance for Post-Secondary Students: Limited Support for Students with Mental Health Problems

Almost half of young adults aged 19 to 25 years old have experienced a psychiatric disorder in the last 12 months. A majority of post-secondary institutions offer extended health plans that cover common health services that students may require. Coverage for medication is usually adequate to cover common mental health problems. However, coverage for psychotherapy or counseling is usually very limited and not adequate to provide for students experiencing common problems such as anxiety or depression. Given the high level of mental health concerns in post-secondary institutions, it is important for campuses to develop comprehensive mental health strategies.