Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (ABADA)
Advocating for better behavioral health services for all Alaskans
Who we are
The Advisory Board on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (ABADA) and the Alaska Mental Health Board (AMHB) work together to support programs that help Alaskans live healthy, independent, and productive lives. The Boards are responsible for planning, advising, and improving behavioral health services funded by the State of Alaska.
What we do
ABADA and AMHB focus on three main tasks:
- Planning and Coordination: The Boards work with state agencies, communities, and organizations to make Alaska’s behavioral health system better
- Advising and Educating: The Boards give advice to leaders, including the Governor and Legislature, and teach people about mental health and substance use issues
- Advocacy and Public Engagement: The Boards listen to the public and speak up for better mental health services and stronger support for Alaskans
The Boards meet often to hear from people and work on statewide planning. Their focus is promoting respect for all Alaskans, listening to families and communities, improving services, and helping youth create programs for their mental health.