2016 NSDUH Methodology Resources

The 2016 Methodological Summary and Definitions report summarizes information users need to properly interpret NSDUH estimates related to substance use and mental health. This report provides information on overall methodology, key definitions for terms used in 2016 NSDUH reports, and analyses of these measures and of the survey as a whole. This report is organized into seven sections:

• Section A describes the survey, including information about the sample design; data collection procedures; and key aspects of data processing, such as development of analysis weights.
• Section B presents technical details on the statistical methods and measurement, such as suppression criteria for unreliable estimates, statistical testing procedures, and issues for selected substance use and mental health measures.
• Section C covers special topics for the redesigned NSDUH prescription drug questions, including the effects of 2016 questionnaire changes on estimates.
• Section D includes a glossary that covers key definitions used in the NSDUH reports and tables.
• Section E describes other sources of data on substance use and mental health issues, including data sources for populations outside the NSDUH target population.
• Section F lists references cited in the report.
• Section G lists contributors to the report.

This Methodological Resource Book (MRB) is intended to serve as documentation of survey materials and methodology associated with the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). The MRB includes details associated with data collection and processing, including sampling, instrument testing and development, weighting, imputation, and statistical analyses and inferences.