SAMHSA
Pronunciation: SAM-sah
Also written as: SAMHSA — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
The federal agency responsible for mental health and substance abuse services, programs, and policy in the United States.
Full Definition
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance behavioral health nationwide. SAMHSA provides funding, sets standards, and disseminates best practices for mental health and substance abuse treatment. In psychiatric and behavioral health documentation, SAMHSA guidelines and publications are frequently referenced for evidence-based practices, funding requirements, and policy compliance.
Usage
Usage note: Pronounced as a word (SAM-sah), not spelled out letter by letter.
In Context
- "The program follows SAMHSA's evidence-based practices for substance abuse treatment." — Grant application documentation
- "SAMHSA funding requires compliance with specific documentation and reporting standards." — Administrative policy manual