Do you or a loved one suffer from alcohol or drug addiction? If so, know that you’re not alone. Studies have shown that around one out of twenty Americans suffers from drug or alcohol dependency. 

However, many people aren’t sure what the word addiction means. Because of that, they may make excuses and even put off seeking help altogether. That’s where a substance abuse assessment comes into play.

But what exactly can you expect from such a screening?

Keep reading to learn all about what you can expect to get out of a substance abuse assessment.

What Is Substance Abuse?

Many people don’t think that they have a problem because they don’t understand what substance abuse is. 

Substance abuse refers to the abuse of any type of substance, legal or illegal. This can include everything from alcohol and prescription medication to illegal drugs.

While substance abuse can lead to addiction, the two are not the same. People with substance abuse problems still have the power to quit, which is why identifying cases early on is so important. 

What Is the Purpose of a Substance Abuse Assessment?

Substance abuse evaluations administered by professionals seek to figure out several different things. Most of the time, this includes the following:

• Whether or not substance abuse is present
• If it is, how it’s affecting your life
• Whether or not you suffer from drug or alcohol addiction
• How severe the addiction is, if present
• What treatment could look like

As everyone’s case is different, professionals take the time to fully screen each individual. They know your story is unique and different from that of others. 

Substance Abuse Screening

Before beginning the assessment, professionals will screen you to figure out whether or not the situation requires attention.

One of the ways that they may do that is with a CAGE questionnaire. This form asks several questions in a sensitive yet broad manner.

Another tool that professionals may use for screening is a SASSI, or Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory Questionnaire. This identifies whether or not drug and alcohol use has surpassed recreational purposes. 

Substance Abuse Assessment

Once the actual substance abuse assessment commences, professionals will get to work figuring out the details of your problem.

You’ll progress through several interviews that seek to shed some light on your substance abuse or addiction problem. They’ll be able to get the details they need to create a treatment plan.

They may also speak with friends and family members who can attest to your substance abuse problem. 

Later Steps

As this guide explains, a substance abuse assessment seeks to identify individuals who suffer from drug or alcohol addiction. 

If the assessment finds evidence of addiction, then substance abuse treatment at a professional facility should be the next step. This is the best way to ensure that the individual gets the attention and help they need to beat addiction.

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