21-883m Help Patients Manage Stress Response Resulting from Adverse Childhood Experiences
Date: 12/23/21
his information applies to Physicians, Participating Physician Groups (PPGs), Hospitals, and Ancillary providers.
For Medi-Cal, this information applies to Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tulare counties.
Refer members to myStrength for help on how to cope with trauma, toxic stress, and recovery
When a person is exposed to serious adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), their body may develop unhealthy stress hormones. This can lead to physical and/or mental health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, or smoking. It can also lead to the substance abuse of alcohol or other drugs. A safe, stable, and nurturing relationship can protect our brain and body from the harmful effects of stress and adversity.
For members with ACEs and other trauma-related conditions, the myStrength program can provide helpful resources. If a member needs emergent or routine treatment services, call Managed Health Network (MHN) at 888-327-0010.
myStrength program overview
myStrength is a mobile and web-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and self-management program provided by LIVONGO®. The program addresses stress through an evidence-based approach to help with issues such as:
- Anxiety.
- Bipolar disorder.
- Chronic pain.
- Depression.
- LGBTQ+1 support.
- Pregnancy and early parenting.
- Race-related stress.
- Sleep and insomnia.
- Substance use disorder.
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
On-demand resources – 24/7
Members can access this resource and more, from the comfort and privacy of their home!
myStrength is a website and digital app program with customized tools to help members balance mind and body. The program is also offered at no cost as a downloadable mobile app. Members may incur data cost to download and use the free app.
The program offers interactive, individually tailored applications that empower members in trauma and PTSD recovery. It also offers in-the-moment mood tracking and immediate stress-relief tools, and courses on the following topics:
- Anxiety.
- Depression.
- Sleep.
- Substance use disorder.
Private and confidential
myStrength.com is a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant platform with customized interactive tools using web and mobile technology. It is private, safe, and secure.
Helpful tips to manage stress response
Urge members to apply these helpful tips in their daily life to manage stress response.
- Build social connections.
- Eat healthy.
- Exercise regularly.
- Get a restful sleep.
- Get mental health support to decrease stress hormones and improve health.
- Practice mindfulness.
Additional information
Providers are encouraged to access the provider portal for real-time information, including eligibility verification, claims status, prior authorization status, plan summaries, and more.
If you have questions regarding the information contained in this update, contact the Health Net Medi-Cal Provider Services Center within 60 days at 800-675-6110.
1Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning (LGBTQ+).