A new year is a fresh start—for your body, mind, and spirit. This January, celebrate Mental Wellness Month by making small changes that can help you feel your best.

Here are 5 ways to take charge of your mental health:

  • Get moving: On most days, aim for 30 minutes of activity like walking, biking, or dancing. Exercise lowers stress and improves mood. Find an activity that you enjoy or a friend to join you.
  • Connect daily: Call a friend, share a meal, or join a group. Strong social ties protect your mental health.
  • Sleep smart: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep.
  • Practice calm: Try 5 minutes of deep breathing, journaling, or meditation to lower stress. YouTube offers many free videos that can help.
  • Get care at no cost: Talk with a counselor or doctor if stress or anxiety feels overwhelming. Get care at home through Teladoc. Visit teladoc.com/sfhp or call 1(800) 835-2362.

Remember: you’re not alone. You can talk with a mental health expert by calling Carelon Behavioral Health at 1(855) 371-8117 (toll-free) or 1(800) 735-2929 (TDD/TTY), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Or dial 988 anytime for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is free and private. A trained crisis worker will give you support and share resources that may help. You can get help 24 hours a day. You do not have to be suicidal to call for help. You can also call to talk about:

  • Depression, mental illness, or feeling alone
  • Feeling worried about money
  • Relationships
  • Sexual orientation or gender identity

As a SFHP member, SFHP will cover the cost of care from calling 988. You can also get mental health care from any crisis center or mobile unit even if they are not in SFHP’s network.

This year, put your mental health first.

More Help from SFHP

  • Customer Service: If you need help or have questions, call SFHP Customer Service at 1(415) 547-7800, 1(800) 288-5555 (toll-free), or 711 (TTY), Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm.
  • Interpreter Services: You can get an interpreter in-person or by phone for your health visits. When you make an appointment, ask for an interpreter at the same time.
  • Need a Ride? SFHP can help you get transportation to any medical appointment covered by Medi-Cal. Ask your provider or call Customer Service.
  • Interested in Medi-Cal Benefits? See if you or your family can get Medi-Cal through SFHP.

Learn more about your covered Medi-Cal benefits and services.