Background
Substance use and mental health disorders are major public health challenges that take an enormous toll on individuals, families, and communities.
Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) are characterized by impairment due to the recurring use of alcohol or other drugs. In 2023, 48.5 million Americans ages 12 or older had substance use disorders over the previous year.
Mental Health Disorders (MHDs) are defined as mental, behavioral, or emotional disorders. They are prevalent in the U.S., with estimates suggesting that more than one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness.
Co-occurring Disorders, also known as dual-diagnosis disorders, involve people who have more than one mental health or behavioral disorder at the same time. Approximately 21.5 million adults in the U.S. have co-occurring disorders.
The annual economic impact is enormous—estimated at $249 billion for alcohol misuse, $193 billion for illicit drug use, and $282 billion for mental illness costs each year.
2021–2024
Over the past three years, the Elevance Health Foundation has invested $33.7 million to support the mental health and well-being of our communities, with an emphasis on substance use disorder programs focused on:
- Prevention and early intervention
- Improved access to treatment
- Community support and recovery
What’s Next
At the end of 2024, Elevance Health Foundation assessed its prior commitments to programs that support substance abuse initiatives.
As a result, the Foundation is launching a new five-year commitment, starting in January 2025, that is expanding its focus to address both substance use and mental health disorders. Our enhanced approach aims to increase the number of individuals receiving treatment for MHDs and/or SUDs, supports prevention and early-intervention strategies, and seeks to reduce loneliness among individuals with these disorders.
The Foundation remains committed to partnering with nonprofit organizations that address health equity and whole-person care and that demonstrate a deep understanding of the health-related needs of the populations they serve.
Our Approach in Action
Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics
A $500,000 grant from the Elevance Health Foundation will help the Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics expand substance use disorder recovery programs in the Commonwealth to six clinics over the next three years.
The clinics will replicate a proven model incorporating certified peer recovery specialists who connect patients to trusted treatment and recovery services and help people access holistic healthcare services.
LA Family Housing
LA Family Housing helps people transition out of homelessness and poverty by providing housing enriched with supportive services.
A $250,000 grant from the Elevance Health Foundation will support programs addressing substance use and mental health for individuals living in permanent LA Family Housing units. Staff are trained to prevent fatal overdoses; residents with alcohol or substance dependence are provided treatment and services, including peer groups and education.
Youth First, Inc.
In December 2021, the U.S. Surgeon General highlighted the urgent need to address the nation’s youth mental health crisis.
In response, a $300,000 grant from the Elevance Health Foundation to Youth First will support the placement and supervision of 78 social workers in schools across Indiana. These specialized mentors will provide on-site, free-of-charge behavioral health services and programs to help prevent substance abuse, improve family relationships, and develop life skills.
Shatterproof
The stigma and discrimination surrounding individuals who have substance use disorders are primary barriers to evidence-based SUD treatment and recovery.
Now a $5.4 million grant from the Elevance Health Foundation to Shatterproof will help improve SUD treatment by reducing beliefs held by healthcare professionals about the stigma of addiction, with an emphasis on socially vulnerable populations. This grant will also support nationwide access to evidence-based resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery.