The first place to begin addressing this question is in a conversation with the clinical team providing the care for the person with SMI. There are resources and programs available that are designed to help cover the cost of medication. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides information on getting help paying for medication that includes information on health insurance options, prescription assistance programs and pharmaceutical company programs that discount medication. Your county or community mental health care center may offer medication and mental health care services on a sliding scale basis. Your NAMI affiliate may be able to help you locate this center. If you are out of medication and need help right away, you may be able to locate a free and charitable clinic in your area that may be able to help.