SAMHSA and Why We Need Them

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, SAMHSA, was among the agencies that experienced cuts earlier this month as a result of shifting federal policies. Specifically, their workforce was cut by about 10%. Unfortunately, recent news reports suggest that they could be facing further cuts, which could reduce their workforce by as much as 50%. This could be disastrous for mental health policy.

First, what is SAMHSA? It is a federal agency that exists within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It has various projects and initiatives that are critical for mental health services and policies. Among the work SAMHSA does is the administration of 988, which is the nation’s Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Earlier this year The LegalMind Society submitted comments supporting changes to 988 that would allow for georouting, meaning that callers would be more likely to get routed to services in their area. Since being launched in 2022, 988 has already helped over 14 million people.

SAMHSA also administers numerous grants that help fund mental health services in communities across the country. If this funding dries up, less services would be available to those most in need. The agency also promotes screening for children and youth individuals through Project AWARE.

Moreover, the work of this dedicated agency delivers positive results. In 2023, there was a reduction of overdoses by about 14%. Given these results and the rising mental health concerns nationwide, it is no surprise that the agency has historically experienced broad bipartisan support. After all, mental illness knows no political party.

Given all this, it is disappointing to hear that SAMHSA might experience drastic cuts. The LegalMind Society is deeply concerned about this, and sent messages to Congress earlier today to advocate on behalf of legal professionals who might benefit from SAMHSA’s work. We also encourage you to do the same if you are equally concerned by these changes.

Regardless of what happens with SAMHSA, the LegalMind Society will continue supporting those in the legal profession and advocating for them when appropriate. And we hope you will consider supporting us as we do so, because if SAMHSA does have its budget slashed even further, than the rest of us will need to step up in whatever way we can.