SAMHSA/ CSAT Airs Link Between Substance Abuse and Childhood Abuse and Neglect

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 8, 2000

Contact: Leah Young
Phone: 301-443-5052

SAMHSA/CSAT Airs Links Between Substance Abuse and Childhood Abuse and Neglect

Researchers are finding that childhood abuse and neglect are markers for adolescent and adult substance abuse. The challenge for professionals who treat substance abuse is to also address physical and sexual abuse and neglect in childhood in order to break the cycle for the next generation.To address these intertwined issues, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)'s Center for Substance abuse Treatment (CSAT) will hold a press briefing on a new publication "Substance Abuse Treatment for Persons With Child Abuse and Neglect Issues.

"Nelba Chavez, Ph.D., SAMHSA Administrator, H. Westley Clark, M.D., J.D., M.P.H., CSAT Director, Michael D. De Bellis, M.D., Director, Developmental Traumatology Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and Sis Wenger,Executive Director of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics
will discuss the need to address both substance abuse and child abuse and neglect in the treatment of adults in order to protect the next generation of children.

WHO: Nelba Chavez, Ph.D., Administrator, SAMHSA

H. Westley Clark, M.D., J.D., M.P.H., Director, Center for Substance Abuse Treatment

Michael D. De Bellis, M.D., Director, Developmental Traumatology Laboratory, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Sis Wenger, Executive Director, National Association for Children of Alcoholics

WHEN: Tuesday, February 15, 2000, 9:30 a.m.

WHERE: National Press Club, Zenger Room, 14th and F Streets, NW
Washington, D.C.