American Addiction Centers Launches Behavioral Health Academic Scholarship Program

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., Jan. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- American Addiction Centers has launched its Behavioral Health Academic Scholarship Program that will provide $10,000 in scholarship funds to college and graduate students pursuing careers in behavioral health and addiction-related studies.

"We are committed to helping those who help others," said Michael Cartwright, AAC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  "It is our hope more students will choose to pursue a career in behavioral health or addiction-related studies and help the millions of Americans facing mental health and/or substance abuse issues."

There is a great need for trained mental health and substance abuse experts.  According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, it is estimated that one in every four adults experiences mental illness while approximately 20% of youth ages 13 to 18 suffer from severe mental disorders in any given year. Findings from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimate 20 million Americans aged 12 or older used an illegal drug in the past 30 days.  The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. reports that one in every 12 adults suffers from alcohol abuse or dependency.

Three scholarships will be awarded. The first place winner will receive $5,000 in financial assistance. Second and third place winners will each receive $2,500. Applications must be submitted by May 31, 2015. Awards will be announced on or about June 26, 2015, and winners will receive their scholarship money on or about August 14, 2015.

Students eligible for scholarships are high school graduates as of Summer 2015 and full or part-time undergraduate or graduate students who are or will be enrolled in a behavioral health, nursing, counseling, psychology, social work, marriage/family therapy program, or another program focusing on treating mental health and/or substance abuse issues. Applicants must complete a brief application form and submit an essay of 800 words or less answering the question, "Why are you interested in pursuing a career in behavioral sciences?"

For more information and eligibility requirements in regards to the American Addiction Centers Behavioral Health Academic Scholarship Program or to apply online visit www.americanaddictioncenters.org/behavioral-health-academic-scholarship.

About American Addiction Centers
American Addiction Centers is a leading provider of inpatient substance abuse treatment services. We treat adults as well as adolescents who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. We operate six substance abuse treatment facilities located throughout the United States, focused on delivering effective clinical care and treatment solutions.

SOURCE American Addiction Centers

Related Links

http://www.americanaddictioncenters.org