Could an animated fish change how we talk about addiction?
September 28, 2026
Short videos may reduce alcohol and substance use disorder stigma
Our focus
- Advocate for increased funding for basic and applied research
Psychological scientists study specific types of alcohol and drug problems and their treatment, including their origins and effects, how these problems change over time, how they are distinct from or may overlap with other conditions, and how they are affected by biological, social, behavioral and cultural factors. - Promote a population health approach to the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders and to increasing access to effective services and supports.
Psychologists and other professionals apply the findings of research to treat substance use disorders, working with individual patients and their families and communities. Psychologists research, develop, and lead substance use disorder services and programs, and are the primary developers and providers of critical interventions for the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders. Behavioral interventions developed by psychologists are the most effective treatment for methamphetamine and other stimulant use disorders, and behavioral interventions are the preferred alternative to the use of opioids for treating chronic pain.
Our efforts on this issue advance the following advocacy priorities:
- Access to health services, including mental and behavioral health services
- Health equity for underserved and vulnerable populations
- Human rights and racial equity
- Substance use disorders
Because of the stress, fear, anxiety, and treatment disruptions caused by COVID-19, we are falling further behind in addressing the public health emergency that was getting much attention before the COVID-19 pandemic—the drug overdose epidemic.
What you can do
Related issues
Contact us
Scott Barstow
Senior Director of Congressional and Federal Affairs
Email APA Advocacy Office
Recent advocacy on substance use disorders
Congress sends the SUPPORT Reauthorization Act to the White House
November 10, 2025
SUPPORT Reauthorization Act would expand access to vital mental and behavioral health services
APA Services welcomes five new members to the Advocacy Coordinating Committee
November 4, 2025
APA Services welcomes five new members to its Advocacy Coordinating Committee, which guides the association’s advocacy priorities each year. Meet the new appointees shaping psychology’s voice in public policy
Protecting health programs for American Indians and Alaska Natives
June 19, 2025
In testimony submitted to the Senate Committee on Appropriations, APA Services highlights the need to protect health programs for American Indians and Alaska Natives