Donna Marks says federal mental health grants could help prevent addiction

Donna Marks, a licensed trauma therapist and author, says new federal mental health funding could reduce addiction by expanding prevention, education and affordable treatment. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced $281 million in grants for programs nationwide.

Why it matters: - Federal funding aimed at prevention and early intervention could reduce addiction before it escalates into a crisis. - The grants could also expand access to mental health care, suicide prevention and trauma-informed services in schools and communities. - Donna Marks argues that treating trauma and emotional distress earlier can help address root causes tied to substance use.

What happened: - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced $281 million in grants to expand addiction prevention, mental health services and recovery programs across the country. - Donna Marks, a licensed trauma therapist and author of Exit the Maze: One Addiction, One Cause, One Cure, called the investment a step in the right direction. - Marks said the funding reflects a shift from reacting after addiction has taken hold to intervening earlier through mental health support, prevention and education.

The details: - The grants will support school-based mental health initiatives, suicide prevention efforts, addiction treatment, trauma-informed care and workforce development. - Marks said people are more likely to seek help early when students, families, teachers and communities can recognize signs of mental health disorders and addiction. - Marks said public education programs can reduce stigma and help people understand where to find support. - Marks said access to affordable treatment remains a major barrier for many people who want help. - Marks said mental health and addiction funding should be prioritized because cost can keep people from getting care. - Marks also said recovery begins before treatment starts, when people recognize they need help and know where to find it. - More information is available at Donna Marks' website.

Between the lines: - Marks is framing addiction as a prevention and education issue, not only a treatment issue. - Her comments also point to a broader policy argument: mental health investment may reduce downstream costs tied to crisis care, relapse and untreated trauma. - The release positions schools and community education as key points of intervention before substance use becomes entrenched.

What's next: - The grants are expected to flow into local programs that expand mental health access and recovery support. - Marks said the investment will help only if it improves awareness, lowers stigma and makes treatment affordable. - Marks is available for interviews.