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Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW
Director, DMH/DD/SUS
| | Hot Topics | January 13, 2026 | | |
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Awareness Month
Week 2: Multiple Pathways to Recovery
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At DMH/DD/SUS, we believe recovery is personal. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. It can include medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, peer support, housing, faith, or self-management strategies. Our mission is to build a system that empowers people to choose their own path.
On January 1, 2026, we published updated state-funded service definitions, based on American Society of Addiction Medicine criteria, to ensure high-quality care. They cover detox, outpatient services, residential treatment and recovery- supported housing.
For opioid use disorder, Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), especially methadone and buprenorphine, remain the gold standard. Combined with counseling, they save lives and support long-term recovery.
Expanding MOUD access in North Carolina is a priority in our five-year strategic plan. Recent progress includes two new mobile Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) and methadone continuation in 51 county jails. In 2025, OTP patients grew by 6 percent, reaching 33,595 statewide.
These efforts reflect our commitment to building a recovery-oriented system of care that offers multiple pathways and supports every individual’s journey toward wellness.
Need help? Call the Alcohol and Drug Council of North Carolina peer-operated 24/7 Recovery Helpline at 800-688-4232.
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Lona's Story
Lona started drinking at 11 and using opioids at 14 to cope with abuse, leading to years of addiction and overdoses. Now in recovery with methadone and counseling, she advocates for treatment that combines medication and therapy. Read Lona's story.
| | New Shareable 988 Materials from SAMHSA | | The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released updated resources to help communities understand the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A refreshed printable fact sheet explains the basics of 988, why it matters, and answers frequently asked questions. | | | |
To address common questions about the difference between 988 and 911, SAMHSA has also published the 988 & 911 Key Differences Fact Sheet, offering a clear overview of when each service is appropriate.
The 988 Partner Toolkit includes these fact sheets and complementary social media assets to make it easy to share accurate information about this life-saving resource.
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National Drug Use and Health Survey
Coming to North Carolina in 2026
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The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) will be conducted in our state in 2026. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), NSDUH is carried out by RTI International, an independent nonprofit research organization.
This scientific survey collects data from the U.S. civilian, non-institutionalized population aged 12 and older. It provides current information on alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use, as well as mental health and related health topics. Since 1971, local, state, and national agencies have relied on NSDUH findings to guide education, prevention, and treatment programs.
Key points to know:
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Random Selection: Addresses nationwide are randomly chosen using scientific methods and cannot be replaced. Residents of selected addresses will receive a letter explaining the study.
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Eligibility and Participation: An adult household member will first answer general questions to determine eligibility. Then, zero, one, or two residents aged 12 or older may be randomly selected for an interview. Each person who completes the full interview will receive $30.
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Confidentiality: All information collected is strictly confidential and protected under federal law (Confidential Information Protection and Statistical Efficiency Act, part of the E-Government Act of 2002, PL 107-347).
For more information about prior North Carolina survey data visit: Behavioral Health Barometer, North Carolina, Volume 8: Indicators as Measured in the 2021-2023 National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (SAMHSA Publication No. PEP25-07-009). Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2025).
| | Learn More About What's Happening in Your Community | | | Rural Health Transformation Program NC Town Hall | | |
The North Carolina Rural Health Transformation Program (NCRHTP), funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), will expand access to care, support rural providers, and invest in technology and workforce in North Carolina. Join us for a Town Hall with NCDHHS leaders. We’ll share details of the program, explain what this federal investment means for rural communities, outline next steps for implementation, and answer your questions. This is your chance to provide input and help shape the future of rural health in North Carolina.
Date/Time: Friday, January 16, 2026, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Registration: Register for the town hall
| | Inclusion Works Community Advisory Committee Meeting | | |
Join Inclusion Works for an update on the progress of Inclusion Works' programs and initiatives. The first meeting of the new year will feature updates on the Inclusion Works Strategic Plan, employment assessments, and provider innovation grants. Presenters will also share information on upcoming provider training opportunities and provide a data overview.
Date/Time: Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, 11:00-12:00 p.m.
Registration: Register for the meeting
Closed-Captioning & American Sign Language Interpreters will be provided.
| | State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee | | |
The State Consumer and Family Advisory Committee (SCFAC) advises NCDHHS and the General Assembly on the planning and management of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services (DMH/DD/SUS).
The monthly meeting brings together individuals with lived experience of mental health, developmental disabilities, substance use, and traumatic brain injury (MH/DD/SU/TBI), as well as family members and advocates, to provide input and guidance in shaping policy and identifying service gaps. Meetings include updates from state agencies, discussions on current issues impacting MH/DD/SU/TBI services, and opportunities for public comment. All SCFAC meetings are open to the public.
Date/Time: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026, 9:00-3:00 p.m.
Registration Link: Register for the meeting
Public Comment: Sign up for public comment
| | State to Local Consumer and Family Advisory Committee Meeting | | |
DMH/DD/SUS invites you to attend the State to Local Consumer and Family Advisory Committee (CFAC) meeting focused on elevating the voices of individuals and families who receive mental health, substance use, intellectual/developmental disability, and traumatic brain injury services. This meeting is an opportunity to strengthen communication between Local CFACs and the State CFAC, share updates, and identify priorities that shape services and supports in our communities. All meetings are open to the public.
Date/Time: Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Registration: Register for the meeting
| | Stay Connected - Get Involved | | | | |
