- Mission [1]
- SAMHSA’s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities. The CMHS National
Advisory Council supports SAMHSA's mission by advising on issues and policies specifically related to the mental health of
people; the development and coordination of Federal prevention policies and programs; eliminating disparities in mental health
services; making early mental health screening, assessment, and referral to services common practice; advancing evidence-based
practices; and developing and implementing health technology and tele-health systems to improve access and coordination of
mental health care. SAMHSA is directed by Congress to target substance abuse and mental health services to people most in
need and to translate research in these areas more effectively and more rapidly into the general health care system. Over
the years SAMHSA has demonstrated that - prevention works, treatment is effective, and people recover from mental and substance
use disorders. Behavioral health services improve health status and reduce health care and other costs to society. Continued
improvement in the delivery and financing of prevention, treatment and recovery support services provides a cost effective
opportunity to advance and protect the Nation's health. SAMHSA's Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) works to improve
the quality of mental health services. In FY2011, CMHS Council members played a critical role in advising the SAMHSA Administrator
on SAMHSA's strategic initiatives, the importance of considering cultural perspectives in developing evidence based practices,
and offered to act as spokespersons for SAMHSA’s initiatives and programs. Through its discretionary grant programs, SAMHSA/CMHS
provides States, communities, organizations, and families with tools to promote protective factors and reduce risk factors
for mental health and substance abuse.
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