Are you concerned that you may be suffering from substance abuse? Drug and alcohol misuse is common in our society but many of us feel dependant on substances to function. 35 million people across the world suffer from substance abuse but only 1 in 7 receives treatment.
So what is a substance abuse evaluation? If you are battling with addiction an evaluation can be valuable. A substance abuse evaluation can provide an insight into the extent of a person’s drug or alcohol dependency.
Do you want to learn more about the substance abuse evaluation process? Read on for our substance abuse evaluation guide.
What Is a Substance Abuse Evaluation?
Professionals use a substance abuse evaluation to determine whether a person has an addiction to drugs or alcohol. The evaluation can also identify if an individual is suffering from a mental health disorder or other health issues as a consequence.
Substance abuse evaluations take place with substance abuse counselors and trained healthcare providers.
What to Expect at a Substance Abuse Evaluation
Substance abuse evaluations may take place in different ways depending on the establishment. Screening is the first step in the evaluation. The screening will also allow the counselor to recommend further treatment.
The initial screening process can also prevent the substance abuse from progressing further. This can help the counselor provide support and steps towards recovery. The counselor will ask questions to the individual about how they use drugs and alcohol.
The CAGE questionnaire appears in most substance abuse evaluations. The questionnaire uses four key question topics:
- Cut Down
- Annoyed
- Guilty
- Eye-Opener
Counselors may also use SASSI (Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory). This tool is for individuals who have a high probability of a substance abuse disorder. The assessment includes a questionnaire and can be completed in 10-15 minutes.
Some states need specific screening methods alongside the CAGE questionnaire and SASSI method. Once you have attended a screening an assessment will take place.
How to Get a Substance Abuse Evaluation
If you suspect you are suffering from a substance abuse disorder you should seek advice from your doctor. You can also reach out to rehabilitation centers such as Hope Rising Recovery who will provide support.
In some cases, a court can order a substance abuse evaluation. The individual may need to complete a substance abuse recovery program such as AA or a Drug Use Risk Reduction Program.
Find a Treatment Program
So what is a substance abuse evaluation? An evaluation can help determine whether you or someone you love is suffering from a substance abuse disorder. Dealing with substance abuse and finding treatment can be difficult and overwhelming.
It is important to remember there are lots of options for support available. Ask your doctor or healthcare provider for more information and help.
Did you find these substance abuse evaluation tips useful? Continue reading our blog for more articles like this!
Hemant Kumar is a project manager at Tridindia with more than nine years of commendable experience in writing about LMS, translation, and IT. His unmatched talent and passion for digital marketing gave him the opportunity to work as a multi-tasking project manager at TridIndia’s sister company, Link Building Corp. Today, he contributes to the world by imparting knowledge on SEO, link building and internet marketing etc., that helps business owners grow their online business.
