September is Suicide Prevention Month. If you’re a PHC patient, you can start a mental health conversation during any visit—medical or dental. If you need immediate help, call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24/7.
Why bring this up at your medical or dental visit?
Mind and body health are connected. Trouble sleeping, low energy, changes in appetite, or jaw pain from clenching can be signs of heavy stress.
Your PHC care team works together—mentioning how you feel during any visit helps us connect you to support sooner.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline right away.
Not sure what to say? Try these simple openers
- “Lately I’m not sleeping and I feel overwhelmed. Can we talk about mental health help?”
- “I’ve had thoughts that scare me. I need support.”
- “Stress is affecting my eating/teeth/jaw. What mental health options are at PHC?”
- “Can I get a referral to PHC Behavioral Health?”
What happens next at PHC
- Warm referral: Your provider can place a referral to our Behavioral Health team during your visit.
- Services: Counseling/therapy for children, teens, and adults; medication support.
- Where: Care across Central Iowa—see PHC Behavioral Health.
Cost & insurance—what to expect
- Medicaid, Medicare & most private insurance accepted. See details on our Behavioral Health page.
- No insurance? We offer a sliding fee scale based on household size and income. Our Health Benefits Specialists can help.
PHC or 988—what’s the difference?
988 is for urgent help—call, text, or chat with trained counselors 24/7.
PHC Behavioral Health is for ongoing care like therapy, medication support, and follow-up after a crisis.
Know the warning signs
If you notice major mood changes, withdrawing from friends, talking about feeling hopeless, giving away belongings, or increased risky behavior, reach out.
Learn more from the National Institute of Mental Health: Warning Signs of Suicide.
Fast facts to share
- About 1 in 20 U.S. adults (5%) have serious thoughts of suicide each year—see the 2023 NSDUH highlights.
- Suicide is a leading cause of death for teens and young adults—see CDC data on suicide trends and rankings.
How to get started
- Already have a PHC appointment? Use a script above and ask your provider for a Behavioral Health referral.
- Need a location? Find clinics in Des Moines, Ames, and Marshalltown: PHC Locations.
- Learn more about services and coverage: PHC Behavioral Health and Patients (insurance & sliding fee).
FAQ
Does PHC accept Medicaid?
Yes—PHC accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance. See our Behavioral Health and Patients pages.
What if I don’t have insurance?
Ask about our sliding fee scale. We can also help explore Medicaid or Marketplace coverage.
What if I’m not sure what to say at my visit?
Use one of the scripts above or bring this page to your appointment. Your PHC team is here to help.