4 IMPORTANT REASONS TO GO FOR SUBSTANCE ADDICTION SCREENING

During the screening, a simple test is applied to determine if the patient is suffering from the condition in question. Screening for substance abuse aims to identify individuals who have or may develop substance abuse problems, and from within that group to identify patients who need further assessment to diagnose their addiction problems and develop treatment plans. 

It is important to go for substance addiction screening and the following points would address that;

  • THERAPY FOR BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS

Includes behavior therapy – a type of psychotherapy – which can be provided by a psychologist or psychiatrist, or by a licensed alcohol and drug counselor. Individual therapy and counseling can be provided to individuals, families, or groups. Therapists and counselors can assist with the following:

· Work with you to develop coping skills for dealing with your drug cravings

· Plan ways to avoid drugs and relapses

· If relapses do occur, suggest how to handle them Discuss issues regarding your job, legal problems, and relationships with family and friends

· Discuss other mental health issues

  • SUPPORT GROUPS

Self-help support groups emphasize that addiction is a chronic disease that can lead to relapse. Groups that support self-help can help decrease the sense of shame and isolation that can lead to relapse.

Find out where you can find self-help support groups with the help of your therapist or counselor. You may also find support groups in your community or on the internet.

  • DETOXIFICATION

In detoxification, also called withdrawal therapy or detoxification, the goal is to enable you to stop taking the drug as safely and quickly as possible. During withdrawal therapy, it may be safe for some people to undergo outpatient treatment. Hospitalization or a residential treatment center may be required for others.

  • REGULAR CHECKUPS

This is very necessary as it helps to ascertain that the patient is improving and to help prevent relapse. During these checkups, the patients receive some important tips from the doctor which also makes their recovery process fast and easy.

20 SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS TO ASK A SUBSTANCE ABUSE ADDICT

The definition of substance abuse may simply be described as isolating oneself from the environment through the harmful use of a substance. In addition to alcohol and drugs (illegal or not), some substances are not drugs at all. 

Below are 20 self-assessment questions to ask a substance addict;

  1. What is your average frequency of using drugs that are not prescribed by your doctor or at higher doses than is recommended?
  2. Are you ever affected by medical conditions such as seizures, flashbacks, and blackouts that are linked to your drug use (in your opinion)?
  3. When you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol, did you ever feel guilty or ashamed about your behavior?
  4. Are you losing interest in other activities or noticing a decrease in your passion as a result of using or drinking?
  5. After drinking a lot or using or not using for a while, have you ever experienced shakes or trembling?
  6. Have you ever had a drug or alcohol-induced “blackout” or a time you can’t remember?
  7. Despite friends or family suggesting you stop; do you continue to consume alcohol or drugs?
  8. When you tried to limit or control your consumption, did you try different drinks or drugs or change your usage patterns?
  9. Does anyone ever suggest you quit using drugs or alcohol?
  10. In the last year, how often did you abuse prescription drugs prescribed to you by your doctor?
  11. What financial, legal, or marital issues have you experienced because of your use?
  12. Are you sneaky about your use or do you hide it?
  13. Is it uncomfortable for you sometimes if you don’t have access to alcohol or your drug?
  14. Are you an alone user or drinker?
  15. Is it easier for you now to drink more and use more without feeling it, compared to when you first tried it?
  16. Under pressure, anger, or depression, do you drink more than usual?
  17. Do you have a job in danger because of drinking or using?
  18. What time of day do you want to drink or use?
  19. Have you suffered from illnesses such as nausea, vomiting, or paranoia because of your drinking or drug use?
  20. How difficult is it to have fun without drugs or alcohol?