Self Assessment of Substance Abuse:

       
          Are you concerned about your own or a loved one’s substance use? Since there is a strong tendency to minimize the magnitude of our own behaviours, especially those that harm ourselves or others, it may be helpful to honestly consider some sensitive questions.

Think About The Following Questions &
Answer Them Truthfully to Yourself

1. Do you require more and more of a mood-altering substance to feel the same effects?
2. Do you often feel sick or shaky the next day? Do you sometimes take more of the substance to avoid unpleasant symptoms?
3. Do you frequently take more of the substance than is wise or was intended?
4. Are you constantly struggling to control or cut down your substance use? Are you preoccupied with substance use or caught up in recovery from substance use?
5. Is substance use interfering with family, work, friends, or other meaningful pursuits?
6. Does your substance use continue despite ongoing negative consequences?
7. Do you feel emotional pain because of your substance use? Are the negative feelings and concerns growing stronger or more frequent?

Remember:
These or similar questions can only be used as a tool to help you consider whether or not you might have a drug or alcohol problem.

Now, consider the questions below and,
 once again, be as honest with yourself as you can.

• Did thinking about some or all of the above questions cause you to argue with yourself before answering?

• Have some of your answers triggered an internal dialogue that seems to be defensive or unduly justifying?

• Did you feel anxious while reading and answering the questions? Did they leave you feeling disheartened about the direction your life seems to be taking?

• Were many of your answers “No” but you have lingering doubts or additional questions?

Are you aware that people who don’t have alcohol or drug problems usually don’t ask themselves if they do.

          If you continue to struggle in an attempt to make sense of your own beliefs, thoughts and feelings about your use of alcohol or other drugs perhaps it’s time to consider some of the more frequently asked questions about substance abuse and dependence.

Self-Assessment | FAQ | Philosophy | Services | Programs
About J. Rouble | Contact Us | Links | News | Brochure | Home