At the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), we know that every one of us, regardless of who we are or our background, deserves access to quality behavioral health care resources and services. In everything that we do, we strive to advance equity, eliminate health disparities, and promote overall well-being for all, including individuals with non-English language preference (NELP). After all, language is not just a means of communication; language is also about creating opportunity, embracing cultural identity, creating connection, and fostering belonging.
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Lessons Learned from SAMHSA’s First LGBTQI+ Behavioral Health Summit
The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI+) community faces unique challenges related to mental health conditions and substance use disorders yet is often underrepresented in discussions about behavioral health. The LGBTQI+ Behavioral Health Summit held on June 24-25, 2024, in Rockville, MD, was a ground-breaking event for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Behavioral Health Equity: Responding to the Needs of our Nation’s Veterans
On Veterans Day, we take time to honor former service members for their willingness to make sacrifices for our nation. Support for all our nation’s Veterans is a prominent component of the wide-ranging services provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). An emphasis on Veteran behavioral health (mental health and substance use disorder) care is rooted in the agency’s recognition of the unique needs of this population and the collective national commitment to support those who served.
The Right to Live in the Community: Commemorating 25 Years of the Olmstead Decision
Tomorrow, 25 years ago, a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision affirmed the rights of people with disabilities – including those with serious mental illness (SMI) and serious emotional disturbance (SED) – to live in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. The case involved two Georgia women – Lois Curtis and Elaine Wilson – living with intellectual disabilities and mental illness.