Alex Goldberg

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About the Author

Alex Goldberg

Alex worked at three early-stage startups before starting Fin vs Fin. Covering the rise of direct-to-consumer health, his mission is to help patients access better treatments online. He's also a husband, father, and UC Berkeley grad who enjoys golf, podcasts, live music, cooking, and home improvement.

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Hims Mental Health Review – Is it Legit for Anxiety & Depression?

In this Article

In this Article

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Steve Kim, MD

About Dr. Steve Kim, MD

Physician Advisor

Dr. Kim received his BA in Human Biology at Stanford University, before receiving his M.D. degree (Primary Care Track) from UC Davis School of Medicine. He completed his Internship & Residency in Family Practice from Glendale Adventist Hospital and is Board-Certified in Family Medicine via the American Board of Family Medicine.

Alex Goldberg

These days more and more people are experiencing anxiety or depression around the world. In fact, anxiety-related disorders are now the most common mental illness in the U.S. Anxiety and depression are often related, with almost half of patients diagnosed with depression also suffering from some form of anxiety disorder, such as social anxiety.

 

Chronic nervousness, irritability, constant tension or poor sleep and difficulties concentrating are all symptoms which both anxiety and depression have in common. In this article, we’ll review Hims‘ treatments for both anxiety and depression, and compare it with other leading providers in the mental telehealth space to help you decide if their online psychiatric services are right for you.

 

Reminder: the worst thing you can do is to leave anxiety or depression untreated.

 

Though stigma around mental health has been decreasing progressively over the past few years, it remains all too common for people to keep mental health issues to themselves. There’s still too much fear of judgement around one’s emotions and feelings – especially amongst men who assume it makes them seem weak to admit vulnerability.

 

The honest truth, however, is mental health is a spectrum: neither fixed at once nor broken permanently, rather it evolves through life as people experience highs and lows. Ignoring chronic anxiety or depression can have serious repercussions in the long run, and mental fitness should be looked after just like any other aspect of one’s health.

 

The good news? Thanks to innovative telehealth companies like Hims, it’s now possible to access affordable mental health care from licensed professionals, if that is what the medical professional decides is best for you, and from anywhere in the world thanks to the internet. 

 

What are the typical remedies used to treat anxiety and depression?

 

Anxiety disorders and depression are highly treatable, yet only a minority of those suffering from them ever get treatment. There are a range of treatment options available, all of which have their own benefits and considerations. 

 

1. Therapy

 

One such treatment is the now-famous Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of talking therapy whereby the patient is encouraged to break down the problems causing anxious and depressive thoughts into five specific component parts: situations, thoughts, emotions, physical feelings, and actions. 

 

By examining each element over the course of a 5-to-20-week plan, it is possible to reframe a problem and perceive situations in a more positive light. In this way, the patient is reducing (and eventually extinguishing) the feelings of anxiety and depression such situations were giving rise to in the first place.

 

Other forms of treatment include natural remedies and Rx medication.

 

2.  Mindfulness

 

Natural remedies tend to include giving more structure to one’s day-to-day life, defining goals, and embedding regular exercise into the day. Sticking to a clear structure and working towards goals help to regain a sense of control over one’s life, and better manage emotional responses to stressful events as a result.

 

Mindfulness techniques around accepting and living in the present moment without judgment are also used to address mild symptoms. Choosing a healthy diet is yet another form of natural remedy, as is improving sleep quality without resorting to medication of any kind.

 

3. Rx Medication

 

Several medications, such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines, are used to help treat anxiety and depression. Antidepressants typically take 2 to 4 weeks to take full effect, and the age of the individual can influence which type of medication is best. 

 

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which function by boosting serotonin levels in the brain, are the most popular form of antidepressant medication when it comes to anxiety disorders, across both young people and older populations. The most common examples of such medication are sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram and bupropion.

 

 

What are the potential side effects from anxiety meds?

 

It’s important to bear in mind the potential unwanted effects before embarking on a treatment plan. Any of the above treatments needs to be carefully weighed against their common side effects, which can have more or less significant repercussions on users.

 

For instance, CBT has been shown (in the most severe cases) to cause “suicidality, breakups, negative feedback from family members, withdrawal from relatives, feelings of shame or guilt, or intensive crying and emotional disturbance during sessions” amongst patients. 

 

This is due to the fact that such forms of therapy expose patients to anxiety-inducing scenarios, albeit gradually, which can trigger such emotional reactions. A study from Cognitive Therapy and Research has revealed that as much as 43% of CBT patients have experienced “unwanted side effects” from their therapy.

 

On the other hand, natural remedies tend to be harmless: there is nothing potentially toxic about meditating or engaging in self-reflection on a regular basis. However, the results they achieve can be limited, especially when symptoms are advanced and require further intervention. 

 

Finally, every medication available to treat anxiety and depression presents their own list of potential side effects to watch out for. Antidepressants, for instance, may lead to several unwanted effects. These includes dizziness, indigestion, headaches or low sex drive and erectile dysfunction.

 

Such side effects are documented in the medication documentation, and there are several online resources which people suffering from anxiety and depression can use to understand their pros and cons. 

 

Before taking any medication-based treatment, it’s always prudent to check with a healthcare professional who knows the patient’s circumstances well and will advise accordingly.

 

What does Hims offer for anxiety and depression?

 

Hims (NYSE:HIMS)  — the consumer health brand seen as a pioneer in the field of telehealth with their cheeky ads for men’s hair loss and ED meds — began their first foray into mental health services with the launch of their holistic treatments for anxiety and depression. This move has come in response to heightened demand as the global pandemic wreaked havoc on many people’s mental health.

 

So what exactly does Hims offer those who are feeling overly tense or down, day after day? It’s a combination of  helpful content, anonymous online group therapy, Rx medication when appropriate, and *soon* access to a licensed therapist 1-1.

 



 

How to get treatment for anxiety from hims

 

Currently, Hims provides online group therapy and can prescribe antidepressants. Regardless of which ends up being best for you, the process typically starts with a free virtual psychiatric evaluation which helps Hims’ doctors determine the right course of treatment.

 

Hers also offers mental health services including psychiatry services, online therapy, and mental health supplements.   

 

Source: Hims & Hers

 

What medications can Hims prescribe for anxiety?

 

Hims prescribes the following anxiety and depression medications based on your online doctor’s visit:

 

  • Sertraline (generic for Zoloft)
  • Bupropion XL (generic for Wellbutrin XL®)
  • Citalopram (generic for Celexa®)
  • Duloxetine (generic for Cymbalta®)
  • Escitalopram (generic for Lexapro®)
  • Fluoxetine (generic for Prozac®)
  • Paroxetine (generic for Paxil®)
  • Venlafaxine (generic for Effexor®)
  • Propranolol for social or performance anxiety 

 

Such drugs have been proven to reduce feelings of fear and anxiety, as well as the constant agitation which are commonly experienced by people who suffer from anxiety or depression. For those who are not suffering from any suicidal behavior or have not been subjected to otherwise traumatic events, they are commonly recommended by doctors as effective treatment options.

 

Roman is another men’s telehealth provider that now offers Ro Mind, which focuses on prescription medication for the treatment of anxiety and depression. Read our full Ro mind review to learn more.

 

Online group therapy from Hims & Hers  –  What’s it like?

 

Hims virtual therapy sessions are anonymous support groups accessible online or via phone, led by licensed mental health practitioners. In the current times, having the ability to reach out for help digitally and discreetly is a real benefit – and is something that healthcare systems around the world have been actively promoting. Regardless of where users are located, they are able to get the help and treatment they need. If you think talking to someone about your problems might  help — or maybe you’re just open to trying anything to feel better — Hims anonymous group therapy sessions might be just what you need.

 

 

What makes Hims’ anxiety meds and therapies attractive for its many customers? 

 

  • Affordability: products are up to 80% cheaper compared to retail prices, and a free  psychiatric consultation is included which alone might set you back a couple hundred dollars if you were to seek in-person help from a specialist.
  • Flexibility: the subscription model means customers have full control over how frequently they receive their treatment (which can be paused, re-started or cancelled at will). All for a single, transparent flat fee.
  • Convenience: medications are shipped directly to customers’ home, and are designed and packaged in a way that’s unassuming, in case you’re worried about what others might think. On top of this, customers are eligible for a full refund with Hims’ generous 90-day money-back guarantee. Overall, Hims makes it easier than ever to start treatment for the anxiety so many of us are feeling these days.

 

 

Hims vs Brightside and similar telemedicine services for anxiety & depression

 

 Let’s see how Hims online mental health treatment compares to other telehealth competitors like Cerebral, Lemonaid, and Brightside  — all of which also prescribe antidepressants online for anxiety and depression.

Best online Mental health providers for anxiety & depression

Cost$49 per month for both group therapy and medication$240 per month for doctor visit, therapy and Rx medication ($140 for first month)
Medication-only $95 pcm
$95 per month for doctor visit and Rx medication only ($45 for first month)$340 per month for doctor visit, 1-1 therapy and Rx medication ($140 for first month)
Medication-only $100 pcm
Ability to prescribe medication online?
Network of medical providers?Yes – extensive network of 124 medical doctors, platform designed with support of over 300 physician organizationsYes – psychiatric providers and therapistsYes – nurse practitioners, pharmacists and patient supportRange of partners, counsellors and therapists
Therapy available?
Geographic availability?All 50 statesLimited number of states (list here)All 50 statesLimited number of states (list here)
Website

It’s also worth checking providers’ websites, as they may be running additional promotions, introductory offers and discounts aside from their standard packages.

 

When choosing Hims, customers can upload images and have a conversation with a physician online. The flat monthly fee grants customers access to both therapy and medication, allowing you to make the most of the services available and give mental health the focus it deserves. Additionally, the service is fully available across all 50 states.

 

There are also alternative solutions for anyone who’s been labeled “treatment-resistant” – ketamine therapy has been increasingly embraced by the mental health community. Check out our review of Mindbloom’s ketamine therapy for treating anxiety if you think traditional therapy or medication may not be working for you.

 

Hims Anxiety Review: What are customers saying?

 

Most customers report a positive experience with Hims online therapy and medication. With close to 70% five star reviews on Trustpilot, they tend to appreciate its convenient, flexible subscription model. Another recurring theme from Hims anxiety reviews is how discreet Hims is when communicating about your health needs, taking privacy very seriously.

 


 

When there are issues  — how could there not be when dealing with something as complex as mental health —  the Hims customer service team is generally quick to respond with a resolution. It’s clear from the outside looking in that the company is willing to address customer complaints. The company also benefits from an A+ customer service rating from the Better Business Bureau.

 

 

However, for some the set-up process wasn’t easy and clear enough (such as the need to take pictures before a subscription can be activated), which the company said it was addressing. The good news is that the company is actively listening to its customers and taking action on the feedback given.

 

 

The Verdict: is Hims legit for anxiety & depression treatment?

 

To summarize, Hims is a legit mental health provider that offers a range of benefits compared to both traditional in-person psychiatrists, as well as other online telemedicine startups

 

First: Hims provides customers with an affordable, flexible and convenient service – all while delicately preserving customers’ privacy with discreet packaging and anonymous group therapy sessions.

 

Secondly, Hims only prescribes the most effective treatments for anxiety and depression — generic versions of medications that have been around for decades and proven helpful to millions. This should give patients peace of mind that nothing experimental is being offered, and direct access to a physician ensures customers are given the best possible care and attention required.

 

While not all the drugs hims prescribes may be suitable for individuals with extremely severe symptoms or pre-existing suicidal behaviors, under normal circumstances they have been clinically proven to be an effective way to improve symptoms. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are considering self-harm, definitely skip Hims and seek immediate help from a doctor as soon as possible. Hims’ treatments for anxiety are ideal for those suffering with textbook cases of anxiety or depression, but if yours is more severe, seek professional treatment elsewhere.

 

We also appreciate how on-point Hims customer support is given how urgent and sensitive mental health crises are. Agents are regularly responding to comments, and customers have access to a dedicated support email address for any questions or concerns.

 

At the end of the day, we all deserve to feel as good as we possibly can. Looking after our mental health is the first step to making our personal wellbeing a priority. While no price is too high to pay for mental calm and emotional centeredness, Hims’ holistic treatment option is also incredibly affordable — offering both group therapy and access to prescription medication for just $50/month. When you consider that the next cheapest option is closer to $100 a month without the group therapy option (or over $200 per month for meds + 1-1 therapy), Hims’ offering for anxiety and depression is pretty amazing.

 

Ready to give Hims a try? With a 90-day money back guarantee, you have nothing to lose. Start with an online psychiatric evaluation.  If you decide to see if Hims can help with your anxiety, let us know about your experience in the comments below.

 

 

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About the Author

Alex Goldberg

Alex worked at three early-stage startups before starting Fin vs Fin. Covering the rise of direct-to-consumer health, his mission is to help patients access better treatments online. He's also a husband, father, and UC Berkeley grad who enjoys golf, podcasts, live music, cooking, and home improvement.

Learn more
Alex Goldberg

Alex Goldberg

Alex worked at three early-stage startups before starting Fin vs Fin. Covering the rise of direct-to-consumer health, his mission is to help patients access better treatments online. He's also a husband, father, and UC Berkeley grad who enjoys golf, podcasts, live music, cooking, and home improvement.
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