Mental health can make or break a recovery. How to spot the need early, and refer in three steps.
November 2, 20262 min read
By Zainab Adesola, BSW, MA, CCC
Why early referral matters
Psychological reactions after a collision are common, and they can stall physical recovery and a return to work. Spotting them early is good for the claimant and simpler for the claim.
Signs to watch for
- Avoiding driving, or riding as a passenger
- Nightmares or memories of the crash that won’t stop
- Poor sleep since the collision
- Pain or distress that outlasts your physical progress
- Low mood, irritability or pulling away from people
- Feeling on edge, jumpy or easily startled
- A slow or stalled return to work or school
Three questions to ask
- Since the collision, are you avoiding driving or being a passenger?
- Are memories of the collision, or worry about it, affecting your sleep or your day?
- Is pain, mood or stress keeping you from work or your usual activities?
Ask it as routine: “Many people have a reaction after a collision.” A yes to any question is a reason to refer. These are check-in questions, not a diagnostic tool.
Under Care-First
For collisions on or after January 1, 2027, mental health care isn’t part of the 12-week Program of Care. It starts with an initial mental health assessment by a physician, psychologist or registered clinical social worker, which the insurer approves in advance, and that assessment produces the care and treatment request (CF-MH-1). It can happen at any point, including while the claimant is in physical care.
How to refer to Bethesda
- Get the claimant’s consent.
- Send their name, phone number, collision date and claim number through our referral form or to letstalk@bethesdathera.com.
- We contact the claimant, help line up the initial mental health assessment if it isn’t done yet, start therapy once the plan is approved, and keep you updated.
What you can expect from us
- Progress and concluding reports (CF-MH-2 and CF-MH-3) with outcome measures
- One contact line for case managers
- Evening availability, so claimants can attend without missing work
Sources
This article is general information, not medical, legal or insurance advice. For advice about your situation, talk to your health care provider, your insurer or a lawyer.
Questions
Quick answers.
Can we book a session for our claims team?
Yes. Care-First Ready sessions are free: 30 minutes for claims teams and brokerages, 15 minutes for physicians and nurse practitioners, virtual or in person.
Keep Reading
Related articles.
Care-First & your mental health: what changes on January 1, 2027Alberta’s new auto insurance system starts January 1, 2027. Here’s how mental health care fits, how it gets approved, and how to start.
PTSD after a car accident: when the stress doesn’t settleMost people’s shock fades in the weeks after a crash. When it doesn’t, here’s what to know.
Is therapy covered after a car accident in Alberta?Often, yes. How it works depends on one date.