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There are several instruments designed to screen substance abuse. Below is a very simple way of looking at alcohol use, for example, but can provide you with some insight into the types of questions that help identify chemical dependency. This test is called the CAGE Questionnaire.
yes    no
Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
yes    no
Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?

yes    no
Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
yes    no
Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning or to get rid of a hangover (eye-opener)?

According to this frequently-used assessment tool, two or more “yes” answer may indicate a problem with alcohol.
For help, contact a drug and alcohol provider near you. If you are a woman and live in or around Allegheny County, call POWER for a private, confidential assessment.

 

  

There are many types of questionnaires and surveys designed to test whether or not alcohol or other drugs are a problem for you. Some of them include questions like, “do you drink after a disappointment or rough day?” Or, “do you use alcohol or other drugs to help numb your feelings?” “Does the same amount of alcohol give you the same effect as when you first started or do you find yourself wanting or needing more?” “Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking or drug use?”

These are some of the kinds of questions that may be found on a self-test. And, of course, the best way to get an effective screening is to see a professional trained in the assessment and treatment of substance abuse. The first and often hardest step, however, is admitting the existence of a problem.

If you are, or someone you know is, struggling with a possible addiction to alcohol or other drugs, there are resources for seeking help. Some include:

Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT)
CSAT is part of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and among many of its functions, it operates the National Treatment Referral 24-hour Hotline (1-800-662-HELP, that’s 1-800-662-4357). The hotline offers information and referral to people seeking treatment programs and other assistance. Additional information about CSAT can be found on their website.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
AA is a 12-Step Program for alcoholics, which offers support and self-help through participation in meetings. To learn about a meeting in your area, call 1-800-252-6465.

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
NA, also a self-help group, provides support to individuals addicted to narcotics through fellowship and is based on a 12-step model. For more information about NA or to find a meeting in your area, call, toll free, 1-888-251-2426. (In the Pittsburgh area, call 412-391-5247.)

AlAnon
AlAnon is a self-help 12-Step program for the family members and friends of individuals suffering from addiction. Their toll-free number is 1-800-344-2666.

POWER Outpatient Program >> 412-471-1262

POWER House >> 412-271-0500, ext. 112 or 116

If you are pregnant and receiving care from Magee-Womens Hospital, ask the hospital social worker about the POWER Connection.

Or, if you are pregnant or a mother and involved with Children Youth & Families (CYF), ask your caseworker about POWER Connection.