Before you take advantage of your local mental health services, check with your insurance coverage to see what's covered. Many insurance policies still reflect the old stigma against mental illness, which means that they may not cover it as well as they cover other medical issues.

Does alcoholism qualify you for mental health services? You bet it does. As a form of substance abuse, alcoholism is an addiction, and can be treated with many of the same techniques used to control other mental ailments. These treatments can help you get back on your feet again.

While insurance companies tend to be stingy when paying for mental health services, that doesn't mean that they won't. They may even pay for services you might not expect, including professional and self-care for survivors of disasters -- so check your policy closely.