Substance Use

In 2023, more than 1 in 10 U.S. adults perceived that they ever had a substance use problem. Among these adults, more than 7 in 10 considered themselves to be in recovery.

To prevent misuse and increase treatment and recovery, SAMHSA works to educate about the risks of substance use, increase prevention activities, fund community-based treatment services, support recovery, and gather and evaluate data about substance use across the nation.

Learn about Substance Use

Learn about common substances, how they affect people, and find resources to help.

two girls chatting to each other outside

Prevention and early intervention strategies can reduce the impact of substance use and mental disorders in America’s communities.

Learn about community-based substance use disorder treatment, and recovery support services for individuals and families in every community.

man chatting with woman while holding phone

SAMHSA defines recovery as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live self-directed lives, and strive to reach their full potential.

Many people mistakenly believe that addiction results from a lack of willpower or moral principles. In reality, addiction is a complex disease that alters the brain, making it hard to quit even for those who want to stop.

SAMHSA's Division of Workplace Programs (DWP) oversees programs to eliminate illicit drug use in federal workplaces and helps all workplaces become drug-free.

Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach that is critical to engaging with people who use drugs and equipping them with life-saving tools and information to create positive change in their lives and potentially save their lives.

Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant (SUBG)

Substance Use Grants

FindTreatment.gov

Technical Assistance and Training

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Last Updated: 10/30/2024