National Survey on Drug Use and Health

National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) is a significant survey conducted annually in the United States by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The survey collects data on the use of tobacco, alcohol, illicit drugs, and mental health in the United States.

Overview

The NSDUH began in 1971 as the National Household Survey on Drug Abuse (NHSDA). Its primary goal is to provide yearly national and state-level estimates of drug, alcohol, and tobacco use, mental health and other health-related issues in the population aged 12 and older.

Methodology

The NSDUH uses a complex, multistage area probability sample design to select a representative sample of the U.S. civilian, non-institutionalized population aged 12 years old or older for participation in the survey. The survey involves interviews with a nationally representative sample of about 70,000 randomly selected individuals across the United States.

Findings

The NSDUH provides critical information that helps to guide policies and programs aimed at preventing substance abuse and mental disorders. The survey's findings are used by government agencies, researchers, policy makers, and others to understand the impact of substance use and mental health issues on health and well-being.

Criticisms

While the NSDUH is a valuable tool for understanding drug use and mental health in the United States, it has been criticized for its reliance on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias. Additionally, the survey does not include individuals who are homeless, institutionalized, or in the military, which may limit the generalizability of its findings.

See also

• Substance abuse
• Mental health
• Epidemiology of substance misuse
• Public health