Federal Behavioral Health Statistics: Using Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality in Public Behavioral Health Surveillance, Policy Making, and Planning

The purpose of this course is to facilitate the use of data and other resources available through the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA), Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality (CBHSQ). SAMHSA is the primary federal agency responsible for enhancing access to quality mental health services, substance abuse prevention, and addiction treatment. SAMHSA's CBHSQ is responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of public health surveillance data on behavioral health issues impacting the nation. These critical public health data are used to inform the work of policymakers, providers, and other public health professionals at the federal, state, and local community levels. Participants will be introduced to the following three national data sets and systems managed by CBHSQ: the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), the Drug and Alcohol Services Information System (DASIS), and the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN). Examples of how these data are used in public health activities, such as surveillance, policy making, and treatment planning will be presented. Experts from CBHSQ and officers in the United States Public Health Service will present this information and encourage participants to ask questions regarding their specific information needs.