National Mental Health Services Survey (N-MHSS): Residential Treatment Capacity
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) · N-MHSS Annual Report
SAMHSA's annual census of U.S. mental health facilities — including how many provide 24-hour residential treatment, what populations they serve, and what payers they accept.
- Residential treatment facilities are a small share of overall mental health facilities, but provide a disproportionate share of long-stay clinical beds.
- Most residential mental health beds are in private nonprofit and private for-profit facilities, not public hospitals.
- Acceptance of Medicaid varies sharply by state and facility type, driving real differences in access.
- Specialty programs (adolescent, eating-disorder, trauma) cluster in a small number of states.
Why it matters
Capacity and payer mix shape who can actually get into residential care. The survey is the most complete public picture of where beds exist and who they take.
Limitations
Facility self-report data; categories evolve year to year. The survey counts beds and services but does not measure outcomes.
Original source
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SAMHSA's National Helpline
For free, confidential information and referrals to local treatment options — not affiliated with this site.
Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)In an immediate mental health crisis, call or text 988.