You can be surrounded by people — or scrolling through hundreds of posts — and still feel completely alone inside. That's not weakness. That's not something wrong with you. That's what social loneliness feels like, and it's affecting millions of people right now, including a lot of people right here in the Central Valley.

They have never had a panic attack in a grocery store because she couldn't afford the food. Never chosen between medication and rent. Never heard voices telling them they are worthless. Never had to white-knuckle their way through another day of sobriety knowing the cravings might win. But someone has. And if you have Health Net or Health Plan of San Joaquin Medi-Cal coverage, you can work with that person for free. Peer Support Specialists are people with lived experience

Medi-Cal covers Peer Support Specialists—certified professionals with lived experience of recovery from mental illness, substance use, homelessness, and trauma. Through CalAIM, Health Net and Health Plan San Joaquin members access peer support via phone, in-person, or telehealth. Peer support specialists help you create recovery plans, navigate systems, build community, and maintain hope. Help Is Hope employs peer specialists and connects members to peer support services in t

Many people know Medi-Cal as a health coverage program, but it offers much more than just medical care. For Medi-Cal participants, especially those enrolled through Health Net or Health Plan of San Joaquin, there are several lesser-known services designed to support housing stability, recovery, and overall well-being. These benefits can make a real difference in daily life, helping members find safe housing, maintain their homes, and access specialized health support.