Linda's Story
For several years, Linda experienced powerful depression during the winter months in Minnesota. She tried medication, with some improvement, but substantial symptoms remained over the dark days of the long Minnesota winter.
Eventually Linda received a diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder(SAD). Her doctor wrote a prescription for a light therapy box, which alleviates symptoms of SAD. Linda felt hopeful that the coming fall and winter would be better than the last. Since she received the prescription during the summer, she figured she would surely receive her light therapy box before the winter weather began.
By December, Linda still had not received approval for the light box from her insurance company. She called MHAM and expressed her frustration with the long delay. Linda’s advocate helped her contact her clinic, and they spoke with a staff member. The staff member had been working hard to get approval for the prescription from the insurance company, but was not getting any response. So, the advocate set up a conference call with Linda, the clinic staff member, and the insurance company. As it turns out, there was a piece of information missing from the request for approval. Linda was able to provide the information, and the barrier to getting the light box was removed.
Linda learned how to self-advocate and prevent problems in the future. Her persistence, along with a little assistance, gave her the outcome she desired.
