NIDA is the lead federal agency supporting scientific research on drug use and its consequences. Our mission is to advance science on the causes and consequences of drug use and addiction and to apply that knowledge to improve individual and public health through:
- Strategically supporting and conducting basic and clinical research on drug use (including nicotine), its consequences, and the underlying neurobiological, behavioral, and social mechanisms involved
- Ensuring the effective translation, implementation, and dissemination of scientific research findings to improve the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders and enhance public awareness of addiction as a brain disorder
The strategic priorities outlined in this plan are intended to address the full breadth of complexity related to drug use and its health and social consequences across the spectrum, from occasional use to problematic use and substance use disorders (SUDs). SUDs include both behavioral and neurobiological components that are strongly influenced by diverse environmental and social factors. Advances in research technologies and informatics are helping us to understand the complex mediators of SUDs in unprecedented ways. NIDA’s strategic priorities for the next 5 years are designed to leverage these advances to translate our increasing understanding of the basic science of the brain and behavior into more effective prevention and treatment interventions that can ultimately reduce the negative impacts of drug use on society. To achieve this mission, NIDA will focus on advancing the following high-level strategic goals:
- GOAL 1: Identify the biological, environmental, behavioral, and social causes and consequences of drug use and addiction across the lifespan
- GOAL 2: Develop new and improved strategies to prevent drug use and its consequences
- GOAL 3: Develop new and improved treatments to help people with substance use disorders achieve and maintain a meaningful and sustained recovery
- GOAL 4: Increase the public health impact of NIDA research and programs