The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) is a U.S. law enacted in 2008 that requires health insurance plans to provide equal coverage for mental health and substance use disorder services as they do for medical and surgical services. This means that insurers cannot impose stricter limits on mental health treatment, such as higher co-pays or fewer visits, compared to other medical care. The act aims to eliminate discrimination against individuals seeking treatment for mental health issues and addiction, promoting better access to necessary care. By ensuring parity, the law supports the overall well-being of individuals and encourages them to seek help without facing financial barriers.