SAMHSA
Pronunciation: SAM-sa
Also written as: SAMHSA — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Federal agency responsible for advancing behavioral health services and reducing substance abuse impact nationwide.
Full Definition
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 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. SAMHSA provides funding, sets standards, and disseminates evidence-based practices for mental health and substance abuse treatment. In child and adolescent psychiatry, SAMHSA initiatives include promoting trauma-informed care, supporting early intervention programs, and funding community-based treatment services. The agency publishes treatment guidelines, maintains national databases, and administers block grants to states for behavioral health services.
Usage
Usage note: Pronounce as SAM-sa, not as individual letters; always capitalize all letters.
In Context
- "The program received SAMHSA funding to implement evidence-based treatments for adolescent substance abuse." — Grant application
- "SAMHSA guidelines recommend screening all youth for trauma exposure in mental health settings." — Clinical practice guideline