Campaigns
SAMHSA's SMVF TA Center is pleased to share a new blog from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)! In the blog, VA extends a call to action to every U.S. state and territory to join the VA/SAMHSA Governor's Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families.
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More than 23 million Americans are in long-term recovery from addiction to alcohol and other drugs and are living proof that recovery is real and that it benefits themselves, their families and communities.
Coalitions are familiar with the sobering stats around prescription drug abuse: more than six million Americans age 12 and older have used a prescription drug non-medically in the past month; drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States.; and about 5,500 Americans misuse a prescription medication for the first time every day. And studies show prescription drugs are often the gateway to heroin use, which has reached epidemic proportions in our country.Learn more at
Promoting Mental Health Awareness
Although mental health is a fundamental component of health, recognition of mental disorders and awareness about its importance is limited. Stigma and lack of understanding about mental disorders are major barriers to seeking help and promoting better mental health. Increasing understanding and overcoming stigma through strategic communications and social mobilization are crucial steps towards strengthening mental health programs.
Suicide Prevention
Suicide as a public issue affects everyone: families, health care providers, school personnel, faith communities, friends and government. The good news is that suicide is often preventable. Every 12 minutes, someone in the U.S. takes his or her own life. And for everyone suicide, there are 25 attempts. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. and the number and rate of suicides are rising. Each year, more than 900,00 emergency department (ED) visits are made by people thinking of suicide.
Learn more at