Substance Use Screening

Substance Use Screening

Social workers should consider screening and assessing all clients for substance use disorder (SUD), even those who do not request services to address substance use. This proactive approach is crucial because many individuals with SUD may not recognize or admit the severity of their issue. Substance use often co-occurs with other mental health or social problems, and early identification can lead to more effective interventions (Van Wormer & Davis, 2018). Furthermore, substance use is frequently linked to health and social issues such as homelessness, family conflict, and legal troubles, making it essential for social workers to screen for SUD to address these interconnected problems (McLellan, 2017).

When working with clients who express reluctance, disinterest, or hostility toward substance use disorder screening, social workers can employ several strategies. Establishing trust and rapport is key in overcoming resistance, and clients must feel heard and respected in their autonomy. Techniques such as motivational interviewing, which emphasizes non-confrontational questioning and empathy, can encourage clients to reflect on their behaviors and the potential benefits of treatment (Van Wormer & Davis, 2018). Social workers can also normalize the process by explaining that screening is a routine part of health and well-being evaluations and does not imply judgment or diagnosis (Fisher et al., 2022).

Additionally, screening and assessing for both substance use disorders and mental illness, known as co-occurring disorders, is of paramount importance. Many individuals with SUD also experience mental health issues such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can exacerbate each other, making it essential to treat both simultaneously for successful outcomes (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2022). Integrating substance use treatment with mental health care ensures comprehensive care, addresses the root causes of both conditions, and reduces the risk of relapse.

References

Fisher, A., Rochesson, S. E. D., Mills, K., & Marel, C. (2022). Guiding principles for managing co-occurring alcohol/other drug and mental health conditions: A scoping review. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-022-00926-7

McLellan, A. T. (2017). Substance misuse and substance use disorders: Why do they matter in healthcare? Transactions of the American Clinical & Climatological Association, 128, 112–130. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5525418/pdf/tacca12800112.pdf

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022, September 27). Co-occurring disorders: The case for screening and treatment of co-occurring disorders. https://www.samhsa.gov/co-occurring-disorders

Van Wormer, K., & Davis, D. R. (2018). Addiction treatment: A strengths perspective (4th ed.). Cengage Learning.