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This article contains descriptions of mental illness, alcohol addiction and suicidal ideation.
Early one morning in February 2023, before the sun rose over Phoenix, Ravi Coutinho went on a walk and, for a brief moment, thought about hurling his body in front of a moving bus. He had been feeling increasingly alone and depressed; anxious and unlovable; no longer sure if he was built for this world.
Several hours later, Ravi swiped open his iPhone and dialed the toll-free number on the back of his Ambetter insurance card. After navigating the automated voice system, he was routed to a friendly, fast-talking customer service rep with a slight foreign accent. His name was Giovanni.
“How can I help you today?” Giovanni asked.
“Hi, I am trying to find a psychiatric care provider,” Ravi said.
“So, you are looking for a primary care provider?” Giovanni asked.