SAMHSA Expedites Emergency Grants to Address Substance Use Disorders and Mental Illness Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Strategic Insights -

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has accelerated its process to release emergency grants to strengthen access to treatments for substance use disorders and serious mental illnesses amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants, totaling $110 million, aim to provide critical support to Americans struggling with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. The funding is being distributed across the United States, with successful applicants receiving up to $2 million for 16 months. SAMHSA is working to address the urgent need for mental healthcare, particularly in light of the pandemic's exacerbating effects on individuals with preexisting mental health conditions and those experiencing new challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • The funds are being awarded to successful state applicants, with up to $2 million available for 16 months, and to territory and tribal applicants, with up to $500,000 for 16 months.
  • The grants are designed to address the increased need for substance use disorder and mental health treatment services amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • SAMHSA anticipates the pandemic to contribute to an increase in Americans grappling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
  • The Trump administration's comprehensive efforts to address the needs of Americans affected by the coronavirus pandemic include this expedited grant process.
  • Before the pandemic, nearly 58 million Americans were living with mental and/or substance use disorders, according to SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Statistics:

  • $110 million in emergency grants to address mental and substance use disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • 58 million Americans living with mental and/or substance use disorders, according to SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
  • Up to $2 million available for successful state applicants for 16 months.
  • Up to $500,000 available for successful territory and tribal applicants for 16 months.

Sources:

  • Statement from HHS Secretary Alex Azar
  • Statement from Elinore F. McCance-Katz, MD, PhD, HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and head of SAMHSA
  • SAMHSA's National Survey on Drug Use and Health