Can I access the unimputed raw variables to explore non-responsiveness or missing data for particular questions?

No. In order to protect the privacy of our respondents this is not allowed. Moreover, using the original variables will not produce better-quality research. NSDUH has developed sophisticated, scientifically sound procedures for data recoding and imputation. The imputed and/or recoded values are almost always more reliable for analysis than the raw data.

If you have a research project specifically focused on non-response, you can apply for access to restricted-use NSDUH data through the interagency Standard Application Process (SAP) portal.