Chemical Dependency in St. Louis Park & Serving Minneapolis, MN
Drug addiction is a scourge that has ruined countless lives and torn many families apart. Addiction is also a health problem, so it should be approached with the health and well-being of the patient in mind. Recovery can be a long, hard process, but each year, countless people start on a successful path to overcoming addiction. The first step to recovery is often to undergo chemical dependency testing. If you live near St. Louis Park or the greater Minneapolis, MN, area and want to schedule chemical dependency assessments, Franklin Family Services can help.
Chemical Dependency Assessments Explained
First, it helps to understand dependency. An individual who is dependent on a substance, such as alcohol, methamphetamine, or heroin, will essentially need to take the substance regularly just to continue functioning. If a person is suddenly cut off from the substance, it can trigger severe withdrawal symptoms and potentially even death or serious medical complications. Although levels can vary greatly, many addicts have some level of dependency.
A chemical dependency evaluation is a process through which experts determine if an individual is suffering from dependency. The evaluation includes various interview-style questions and may also involve examining life events, recorded messages, or statements from others (such as family members). The goal is not to criticize the patient or their struggles. Instead, the experts aim to develop an understanding that can provide a foundation for overcoming dependency and addiction.
In Minneapolis, MN, these screenings often consist of two phases and may be administered by two different professionals:
The Initial Assessment: The first evaluation often involves simple “yes or no” questions and is administered by people who have been specifically trained to complete this task. It doesn’t necessarily aim to determine if someone has a dependency issue but finds out if further analysis is warranted.
The Final Assessment: During this phase, the goal is to determine whether someone is facing dependency or not. The interview and investigation become more in-depth and the questions more complex. This evaluation is usually conducted by a highly trained professional, such as a therapist or medical doctor. After completing the test, we can recommend the next steps to take.