This document provides an overview of essential information necessary for understanding mental health and substance use disorder parity and how to implement and comply with federal parity laws. This guide applies to parity laws in employer-sponsored health plans and group and individual insurance.

There are protections in federal law, collectively known as “parity,” which are designed to ensure that certain types of health plans cover mental and substance use disorders no less generously than they cover other health issues. This resource can guide you to helpful materials and places.

This brochure gives an overview of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. It lists some of the common limits placed on mental health and substance use disorder benefits and services.

This report provides a snapshot of key aspects of behavioral health, serious mental illness, suicidal thoughts, and mental illness, substance use disorders, or both. The information is based on selected determinants of health, including race and ethnicity, income level, geography, and health insurance status.

This report highlights the structure, responsibilities, policies, services, and financing of single-state agencies and state mental health agencies. The report includes discussion of efforts to integrate physical and behavioral health and efforts by state agencies to address opioid abuse and misuse.

This report offers best practices for implementing the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. It covers processes for implementing parity and collaborating with other organizations. The report also discusses tools for understanding and monitoring compliance.