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).
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Advancing Behavioral Health Equity and Language Justice: SAMHSA’s Updated Language Access Plan
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.
SAMHSA’s 20th Prevention Day: Leading with Science, Improving Lives
We’re building on the momentum of SAMHSA’s 20th Prevention Day and looking ahead to National Prevention Week (May 12-18).
Collaborative Substance Use Prevention: Stronger Together
During Substance Use Prevention Month and year-round, many opportunities exist for the prevention field to work collaboratively (across sectors and partners) to develop and implement comprehensive prevention approaches.
Prevention seeks to prevent initiation of substance use, prevent progression of substance use (to a substance use disorder), and prevent harms associated with substance use.

