The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation, as described by them directly. At Substance Abuse Consultants we work closely with SAMHSA to provide critical data and support to further the endeavor of helping those with addiction.
HHS (Health & Human Services) has 12 operating divisions, including nine agencies in the U.S. Public Health Service and three human
services agencies, one of which is SAMHSA. These divisions oversee a wide variety of health and human services and conduct life-saving research for the nation, protecting and serving all Americans. SEE THEIR PLAN HERE –>
While the DOT is a Federal government agency with its own 5 branch agencies under it, it is not part of HHS but there will of course be crossover regarding employees, employment rules, occupational health, and guidelines of federal laws. The goal of SAMHSA is, “SAMHSA’s mission is to lead public health and service delivery efforts that promote mental health, prevent substance misuse, and provide treatments and supports to foster recovery while ensuring equitable access and better outcomes. SAMHSA envisions that people with, affected by, or at risk for mental health and substance use conditions receive care, thrive, and achieve wellbeing“.
SAMHSA’S EFFORTS INCLUDE:
Provide grant funding opportunities and guidance to states and territories, as well as tribal and local communities: (using the opioid crisis in certain regions of the US as an example)
• Provide technical assistance to grantees and practitioners;
• Publish and share resources for individuals and family members seeking information on prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery;
• Collect, analyze, and share behavioral health data;
• Collaborate with other Federal agencies to evaluate programs and improve policies; and
• Raise awareness of available resources through educational messaging campaigns and events.
What They Aim To Achieve:
SAMHSA’s priorities focus on five key areas:
1. Preventing Overdose
2. Enhancing Access to Suicide Prevention and Crisis Care
3. Promoting Resilience and Emotional Health for Children, Youth, and Families
4. Integrating Behavioral and Physical Health Care
5. Strengthening the Behavioral Health Workforce