Center for Mental Health Services

CENTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

The Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) is the federal government agency that directs national efforts to promote mental health services and prevent mental illness. In 1992, the U.S. Congress established CMHS through Public Law 102–321, which created the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). CMHS is one of three centers that comprise SAMHSA; the other two focus on substance abuse prevention and treatment.

CMHS, through its partnership with states, administers mental health block grants; funds research on evidence-based practices; works with state and local service agencies; and disseminates research findings to improve service systems for adults with serious mental illness as well as children and adolescents at risk for mental disorders, juveniles in the justice system, underserved and ethnic minorities, the homeless, and students in public schools.

SHELAGH A. SMITH

(SEE ALSO: Center for Substance Abuse Prevention; Community Mental Health Centers; Mental Health; Mental Retardation)