U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
In 2018, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched the Helping to End Addiction Long-term® Initiative, or NIH HEAL Initiative®, to find scientific solutions for the opioid public health emergency. The inability to treat pain safely and effectively continues to be a main driver of the opioid and overdose crisis. Therefore, HEAL has two main goals:
- Improving the understanding, management, and treatment of pain
- Improving the prevention and treatment of opioid misuse and addiction
HEAL research in pain and opioid misuse and addiction addresses urgent unmet needs across the lifespan – from infants exposed to opioids during pregnancy to teens treated with opioids after a routine medical procedure and adults living with chronic pain. HEAL research covers many areas of scientific promise and concrete strategies capable of providing rapid and lasting solutions to the opioid crisis.
Why HEAL?
The NIH HEAL Initiative is an NIH-wide research effort that combines the power of science and community to address the opioid crisis that is devastating American communities.
Opioids and Pain Management
Understand how pain management and the opioid crisis are linked.
Making a Difference
HEAL-funded research is making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities across America.
NIH HEAL Leadership and Staff
Meet the committees, scientists, and staff who are working to end opioid use disorder long-term.
Budget and Annual Report
See the budget for NIH HEAL Initiative programs, as well as annual reports on organizational and research progress.
