Definition of SAMHSA

SAMHSA: A part of the U.S. Public Health Service, SAMHSA was established in 1992 and directed by Congress to target effectively substance abuse and mental health services to the people most in need and to translate research in these areas more effectively and more rapidly into the general health care system. Over the years SAMHSA has demonstrated that - prevention works, treatment is effective, and people recover from mental and substance use disorders. Behavioral health services improve health status and reduce health care and other costs to society.

The agency's centers include: The Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) which focuses on the prevention and treatment of mental disorders. •The Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) which seeks to prevent and reduce the abuse of illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco. •The Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) which supports the provision of effective substance abuse treatment and recovery services. •The Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (CBHSQ) which has primary responsibility for the collection, analysis and dissemination of behavioral health data. More information about CBHSQ (formerly known as OAS).

Additional information is available at http://www.samhsa.gov/index.aspx.