Drug & Alcohol Screening in Treatment

The majority of people suffering from alcoholism or other drug addictions are in denial, refusing to admit that a problem exists. Accordingly, the screening process in drug and alcohol treatment is often the first instance in which some comprehension of the situation may set in.

Observation

• A physician or counselor at a substance abuse treatment facility considers several questions when screening individuals for drug and alcohol addiction. Some observations are casual while others may be more in-depth.

Signs

• Four significant signs of dependence include craving (a strong need or urge to indulge), loss of control (inability to stop), physical dependence (withdrawal, sweating, nausea) and tolerance (the increasing need for more in order to get "high").

Identification

• According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, questions such as, "Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?" and, "Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?" may be used during drug and alcohol screening.

Criteria

• The American Psychiatric Association established a set of criteria that must be met in order for alcoholism or other drug addiction to be firmly diagnosed. These include: tolerance; withdrawal symptoms; using more than intended; having a desire to cut down and being unsuccessful; giving up social, occupational or recreational activities; and continuing to use even with an understanding of the problems being caused.

Options

• Four primary options exist for the treatment of substance abuse: Rehabilitation centers offer inpatient and outpatient treatment, residential programs are a long-term possibility in extreme cases, and recovery programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous offer group support.