Mental Health and Substance Use

Mental health and substance use disorders affect millions of Americans each year. In 2024, over 61 million adults experienced mental illness, and more than one in six Americans aged 12 or older reported a substance use disorder. These conditions often occur together, known as co-occurring disorders, requiring integrated treatment approaches for effective recovery. Though substance use disorders are chronic diseases, they are treatable, and recovery is possible with the right care. However, many face barriers such as stigma and limited access to treatment (Medication-assisted treatment).

Treatment and Recovery Options

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies and is considered the gold standard for opioid use disorder. Tools like naloxone (Narcan) help reverse overdoses, while Good Samaritan laws protect those seeking emergency help. Support is also available for families dealing with treatment refusal (family guide to treatment options), and courts are increasingly focusing on treatment rather than punishment (drug courts).

Coverage, Rights, and Support

Federal laws require insurance coverage for addiction treatment on par with other medical conditions (mental health parity law). The SUPPORT Act expanded access to treatment and overdose prevention, supported by billions in federal grants for community services (federal opioid grant funding). Addressing stigma through respectful language is vital to improving outcomes (addressing stigma). For help, federal resources connect people to care for substance use and mental health (substance use support) (mental health treatment).