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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration
SAMHSA
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA),
an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), was
established by an act of Congress in 1992 under Public Law 102-321. With the
stroke of a pen, an agency, separate and distinct from the National Institutes
of Health or any other agency within the HHS, was created to focus attention,
programs, and funding on improving the lives of people with or at risk for
mental and substance abuse disorders.
Much has changed since then in the mental health and substance abuse fields, and
so, too, has SAMHSA. To that end, SAMHSA's mission and vision have been more
sharply focused and aligned with HHS goals and President Bush's administration
priorities. It is a vision consistent with the President's New Freedom
Initiative that promotes a life in the community for everyone. Moreover, SAMHSA
is achieving that vision through a mission that is both action-oriented and
measurable: to build resilience and facilitate recovery for people with or at
risk for substance abuse and mental illness. In collaboration with the States,
national and local community-based and faith-based organizations, and public and
private sector providers, SAMHSA is working to ensure that people with or at
risk for a mental or addictive disorder have the opportunity for a fulfilling
life that includes a job, a home, and meaningful relationships with family and
friends.
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