Your mental health, covered
While mental health cover isn't a type of insurance, it's there to help you access support when you're feeling stressed, anxious, or just not quite yourself emotionally or mentally. It can include things like counselling, therapy sessions, and other services designed to help you feel better and stay well.
Taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health. Whether you're facing challenges or simply want someone to talk to, mental health cover can give you the tools to help you feel more confident and supported.
It’s a smart choice for anyone who wants to feel more in control and cared for, because having access to the right help can make everyday life feel that little bit lighter.
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Does health insurance cover mental health?
Yes, it can! Many health insurance plans include mental health support as part of their cover. Providers recognise the importance of supporting your health holistically, not just your physical wellbeing. So in addition to helping you care for your physical health, that might also mean help with talking therapy, counselling, or access to online tools that support your wellbeing.
Mental health cover is designed to make it easier to get the right help when you need it. Whether that’s someone to talk to, guidance through a tough time, or support to feel more like yourself again, you’re not alone.
If you're thinking about health insurance, choosing a plan that includes mental health support is a great way to take care of your whole self, body and mind.
What mental health conditions are covered?
Aviva’s health insurance typically covers treatment and support for the following common mental health conditions:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Eating disorders
- Stress-related conditions
- Substance abuse (depending on the policy level).
Types of Support Available
Depending on your chosen plan, Aviva offers:
- out-patient mental health treatment – up to £2,000 for therapy or counselling sessions.
- in-patient and day-patient psychiatric treatment – up to 28 days.
- stress counselling helpline – available 24/7 with trained professionals.
- digital support & wellbeing services – through apps like Aviva Digital GP ‡, which can give you support 24/7, and tools to keep your mind and body in shape through services like Get Active‡. This not only includes savings on memberships at health and fitness clubs nationwide, but also gives you access to discounts on healthy lifestyle brands and services. ‡
What conditions aren’t covered?
Aviva’s health insurance is designed to support your mental wellbeing, but there are a few things it doesn’t cover.
For example, long-term or chronic mental health conditions (except cancer-related ones) aren’t usually included. That means if you’ve had a mental health condition for a while or it started before your cover began, it might not be part of your plan.
Pre-existing conditions, ones you’ve had before taking out your policy, may also be excluded.
Here’s a quick look at what’s typically not covered:
- Long-term or chronic mental health conditions (unless related to cancer)
- Mental health conditions that started before your policy began
- Pre-existing conditions, depending on your plan
- Treatment not recommended or referred by a recognised medical professional
- Support received outside of your policy’s approved network or limits
It’s always a good idea to check your policy details or speak to Aviva directly to understand exactly what’s included and what’s not. That way, you can make sure your cover fits your needs.
What are the benefits and limitations to mental health cover?
Mental health cover can be a great way to get support when you need it. But like any insurance, it has things it does and doesn’t include. Here’s a simple table to help you explore the options:
Benefits
- Access to talking therapies and counselling sessions.
- Up to £2,000 for outpatient mental health treatment (depending on your plan).
- In-patient and day-patient psychiatric treatment for up to 28 days.
- Digital tools like the Aviva Digital GP app. ‡
- Fast access to mental health support.
Limitations
- Long-term or chronic mental health conditions may not be covered.
- Pre-existing conditions might be excluded depending on your policy.
- To use mental health benefits, you’ll need a GP referral through Healthier Solutions.
- Not all digital services are included in every policy.
- Cover levels vary by plan—some benefits may not be included in basic options.
Why choose us for health insurance?
It takes a name you can trust. Over 1.2 million people agree, and have health insurance with us, as at year to date September 2025.
Get access to wellbeing services to help keep you at your best
Our health insurance is rated 5 Star by industry experts, Defaqto
A doctor in your pocket - medical help anytime, anywhere, with the Aviva Digital GP app‡
‡ This service is non-contractual and can be changed or withdrawn at any time.
Learn about health insurance.
We have a range of guides and tools to help you understand how health insurance works and what you’ll be covered for.
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