The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has sharply focused its mission on building resilience and facilitating recovery for people with or at risk for mental or substance use disorders. SAMHSA is gearing all of its resources -- programs, policies and grants -- toward that outcome.

Americans know all too well the human and financial costs and burdens of mental health conditions—to individuals and families as well as to communities and States. Thankfully, America is beginning to recognize and embrace three fundamental principles at the core of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s vision, "A Life in the Community for Everyone."

The first of these principles is that prevention efforts are incredibly effective in reducing the incidence and severity of mental disorders.

Second is that individuals with mental illnesses, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders can and do recover when they take steps toward seeking help and the right services and treatment take hold.

The third is that we are taking bold action on the long-neglected need to improve a humane and efficient mental health promotion and service delivery infrastructure. The mental health care system is changing through the twin goals of building resiliency and promoting recovery and through a strong Federal commitment to partner with allies.

Today recovery from mental illnesses and co-occurring substance use disorders is no longer the privilege of a few exceptional people, but a possibility for all Americans.  With new Federal leadership charting the course, and the vision of mental health care transformation lighting the way, more and more people with mental illnesses are stepping out of the shadows of hopelessness, stigma, and exclusion, and are at long last receiving the care, respect, and belonging which they deserve.

For more information on SAMHSA’s programs, policies and grants, visit www.samhsa.gov