The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is a leading medical specialty society representing nearly 36,000 psychiatrists from the United States, Canada, and globally. Founded in 1844, the APA has evolved from a group of superintendents of mental hospitals to a comprehensive organization advocating for mental health. The APA supports the diagnosis, treatment, and research of mental illnesses, including substance use disorders, and advocates for increased funding, insurance parity, and patient protection. It offers educational programs, maintains the *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders* (DSM), and publishes *Practice Guidelines* to guide clinicians. The APA also defines professional values and ethics, ensuring high standards of care. Over the years, the APA has expanded its scope, established the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and created the American Psychiatric Press, Inc. (APPI) to publish psychiatric literature. The APA's mission includes promoting quality care, advancing education and research, and serving its members. Key initiatives include advancing insurance non-discrimination, protecting patient safety, and improving mental healthcare for minorities and underserved communities. The APA's annual meeting is the largest gathering of psychiatric professionals, and its subsidiaries, such as APPI, APIRE, and the American Psychiatric Foundation (APF), continue to lead in research, education, and public policy. The APA's commitment to excellence and advocacy ensures its position as a leading mental health association.The American Psychiatric Association (APA) is a leading medical specialty society representing nearly 36,000 psychiatrists from the United States, Canada, and globally. Founded in 1844, the APA has evolved from a group of superintendents of mental hospitals to a comprehensive organization advocating for mental health. The APA supports the diagnosis, treatment, and research of mental illnesses, including substance use disorders, and advocates for increased funding, insurance parity, and patient protection. It offers educational programs, maintains the *Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders* (DSM), and publishes *Practice Guidelines* to guide clinicians. The APA also defines professional values and ethics, ensuring high standards of care. Over the years, the APA has expanded its scope, established the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and created the American Psychiatric Press, Inc. (APPI) to publish psychiatric literature. The APA's mission includes promoting quality care, advancing education and research, and serving its members. Key initiatives include advancing insurance non-discrimination, protecting patient safety, and improving mental healthcare for minorities and underserved communities. The APA's annual meeting is the largest gathering of psychiatric professionals, and its subsidiaries, such as APPI, APIRE, and the American Psychiatric Foundation (APF), continue to lead in research, education, and public policy. The APA's commitment to excellence and advocacy ensures its position as a leading mental health association.