Discussion: Assessment and Diagnosis
Assessment and diagnosis are the first, and most critical, parts of substance use disorder treatment. Without an accurate assessment, the client may not benefit from the treatment options selected.
Review the following scenario and address the questions that follow:
Julia got into a car accident at the end of her senior year of high school, which resulted in a broken leg and an injured knee, both of which needed surgery to repair. During her recovery, she was in a lot of pain, so her doctor prescribed OxyContin.
After several weeks, the prescribed dose of OxyContin was no longer sufficient to completely alleviate Julia's pain. So, she decided to take more than the prescribed dosage. This not only alleviated Julia's pain, but it also gave her a feeling of euphoria, which she enjoyed. When Julia ran out of OxyContin and was unable to take it, she experienced a great deal of pain, even in areas of her body that were not affected by the car accident. She also found herself more anxious and agitated on days when she could not take OxyContin than on days when she did take it.
Based on your analysis of the scenario and module readings, respond to the following:
1. Which assessment tool(s) would you use to help evaluate and diagnose Julia's substance use? Explain why you made your choice.
2. Based on the current DSM diagnostic criteria, does Julia's behavior fit into a substance use disorder? Explain the rationale for your diagnosis.
Write your initial response in 300-400 words.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.
NOTES: Read the case study carefully. It's helpful to form a quick description of your client. Check your assumptions against the case! Sometimes we form mental images from what we read that are not totally accurate.
Feel free to ask questions in your discussion -- of me or your fellow classmates. This is meant to be a discussion!
You can find a nice summary of assessment types for adolescents at this Web site:
• Winters, K. C. (2004). Assessment of alcohol and other drug use behaviors among adolescents. National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).
Another nice summary and list of assessment tools can be found here:
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (1994). Screening and assessment. In Treatment for alcohol and other drug abuse: Opportunities for coordination [DHSS Publication No. (SMA) 94-2075].