NIDA treatment principles emphasize that treatment needs differ and that a plan should address the individual, not only substance use. A meaningful screening conversation may therefore ask about substances used, recent use, current symptoms, prior treatment experiences, health concerns, medications, mental health needs, daily responsibilities, and available support. You can ask why each detail matters without trying to diagnose yourself.
Make a one-page call sheet. At the top, list the person’s name, location, preferred language, substances used, last known use, current symptoms, medications, major health concerns, and any immediate safety issue. Below that, write your practical constraints, such as timing, mobility, caregiving, work, or communication needs. Leave space for the program’s answer and the name or role of the person who supplied it. If facts are uncertain, label them uncertain rather than guessing.
- What information do you need before deciding whether to continue the admission review?
- Which needs can your setting address, and which would require another provider or setting?
- How do you respond if new health or mental health information appears during review? Gift? Need remove typo. Whom should we call if the program is not a fit?