Your journey to recovery is unique, and at Harmony Ridge Recovery, we honor that. Your treatment plan is as unique as you are, carefully crafted to address not just the symptoms but the root causes, encompassing your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Our experienced clinical and medical professionals are here to provide you with 24-hour care and support. Every step of the way, your wellbeing is our priority. Through evidence-based therapies, we guide you toward recovery from drug addiction, co-occurring disorders, and alcoholism. Thousands of people have found lasting recovery through our dedicated team at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center. One of the people who succeeded in overcoming addiction is our very own alumnus, Brian Irwin. Let’s take a look at his personal experience, which will inspire you to take a proactive step toward a substance-free life and get the support you need. Continue reading →
Life can be difficult when struggling with alcohol or drug addiction. Luckily, you don’t need to go through all that alone. Alcohol and drug addiction hotlines in West Virginia are a helping hand in tough times. Harmony Ridge Recovery Center in WV is a leader supporting this challenging journey. We understand how hard it can be to ask for help. But don’t forget that these hotlines offer you a private way to talk about your struggles and find support. They’re a first step toward healing, where understanding operators listen and guide you. You deserve a chance at a better life, and these hotlines are here to help you take that first brave step. Continue reading →
The return of a dear friend or family member from rehab in Clarksburg is a significant and hopeful event marked by a mix of emotions and expectations. It is the start of a fresh chapter in their life, where they’ve taken courageous steps toward healing and reclaiming control. As you welcome them back from a West Virginia treatment center, it’s essential to be prepared for what comes next. Patience, support, and open communication will be crucial for their continued progress. We’ll explore what to expect when your loved one returns from rehab in Clarksburg and offer insights to help navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories along this path to recovery. Continue reading →
As a recovery center dedicated to understanding and addressing substance-related challenges, we know how important understanding the problem is. That is why we strive to offer in-depth explanations of different substance abuse-related issues. In this article, we will focus on greening out. This phenomenon represents a moment when the thin line between recreational enjoyment of cannabis and potential distress becomes palpable. Therefore, understanding what greening out is is paramount for fostering a safe and positive environment and encouraging individuals to get help with addiction. We’ll offer insights, strategies, and expert guidance. Continue reading →
Methadone, a medication used to treat opioid dependence, can be a crucial element in the journey to recovery. However, the process of methadone tapering requires careful consideration and support and is usually done in rehabs in WV with professional help. We understand that this journey can be both challenging and hopeful, and our goal is to empower you with knowledge and practical tips to make the transition as stressless as possible. Continue reading →
Music therapy, a lesser-known yet powerful tool, is gaining traction for its positive effects during addiction treatment. In Parkersburg, where the community grapples with substance dependency, this therapeutic approach offers a ray of hope. Harnessing the profound connection between music and emotions, music therapy aids those in need on their journey to recovery. It’s a strategic intervention that can transform the rehabilitation process. Let’s shed light on how music therapy enriches the healing process for those seeking to overcome addiction. Continue reading →
Starting recovery is a significant step, and knowing what to expect during your first week at rehab can help a lot. This period lays the foundation for your journey to wellness. As you prepare to enter a new chapter, understanding the pre-admission process, the welcoming environment you’ll join, and the structured days ahead is essential. Harmony Ridge provides a clear picture of the initial stages of rehabilitation, offering support and clarity as you take this transformative step. Continue reading →
You might think that when it comes to drug and alcohol treatment, you just show up at a rehab facility and begin your treatment. However, there is a lot more that goes into it in order to make sure that you get the best treatment you need. One of the things that is done before treatment can begin is a drug and alcohol assessment. This is done to determine the best course of action as far as treatment is concerned. It is also beneficial in creating a treatment plan that will work best for you. When it comes to a drug and alcohol assessment, there are a lot of questions that people have. In this blog, we will answer many of those questions, including exactly what happens during a drug and alcohol assessment.
What Exactly Is a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
A drug and alcohol assessment is an evaluation that determines a patient’s best course of action for treatment. Once someone has decided to undergo substance abuse treatment, staff must perform an assessment. This is a tool used to determine the extent of the person’s substance use. It also helps treatment professionals create an individualized care plan well-suited for their needs.
This assessment can also be used to determine if the person is suffering from any co-occurring mental health conditions as a result of their substance abuse. Disorders such as depression or anxiety are also treated during addiction treatment. Not treating these can not only negatively affect the ability for the person to successfully undergo substance abuse treatment, but it can also result in the mental condition worsening.
What is the Purpose of a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
A drug and alcohol assessment is done by a trained professional at the treatment facility to determine the best treatment plan for the person suffering from addiction. While on paper many people might suffer from the same type of addiction, no two addictions are truly the same. That’s because everyone is different and, as a result, responds uniquely to different things. A drug and alcohol assessment allows the treatment professional to learn more about the person. This then allows them to put together the best treatment plan for them and their problem.
Additionally, this type of evaluation also helps in determining the following:
If the person is suffering from addiction
The level of that addiction
If there are any co-occurring disorders
How the addiction has affected the person’s life
A substance abuse evaluation can be performed by any of the following people in a treatment facility:
Social worker
Counselor
Therapist
Psychologist
Psychiatrist
Doctor
Nurse
What Can I Expect From a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
When it comes time to take the actual assessment, there are two main components: screening and the assessment itself. The screening is done to evaluate the possible presence of a particular problem, in which the outcome is normally a simple “yes” or “no.” The assessment is done to define the nature of that problem, determine a diagnosis, and develop specific treatment recommendations for the condition.
Screening
The screening portion of the evaluation is done to help the treatment staff determine what exactly the person needs treatment for. It also tells them if there is anything that requires a more in-depth analysis. This is a vital aspect of an assessment because it helps determine the severity of the addiction which could determine if treatment must begin immediately. It also helps identify if there might be any underlying co-occurring mental disorders that also need to be addressed during treatment.
There are many different ways that the screening portion of the evaluation can be administered. They include:
CAGE Questionnaire: This is one of the most popular and widely used methods of screening. The CAGE Questionnaire asks four questions in a brief and sensitive way.
Alcohol Use Inventory: This method is self-administered and designed for people who believe they might have an alcohol addiction. The Alcohol Use Inventory is beneficial because it recognizes that each person has a set of unique perspectives associated with the risks, results, and lifestyle choices associated with drinking.
Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI): The SASSI is designed to be easy for both administration and scoring. It helps in determining if the person’s use extends past social drinking or recreational drug use. It also helps determine what level of seriousness the use implies and how willing the person is to identify problems and change.
While some screening methods can be done by the person themselves or even by friends or family, it is recommended that the screening be conducted by a professional. It’s most effective when conducted by a professional. He or she can assess the results in a more timely fashion.
Assessment
While the screening portion is a great way to help determine what the person needs to be treated for, the assessment goes much more in depth. The assessment is conducted in order to find direct evidence that supports a drug or alcohol addiction or a co-occurring disorder. The assessment can be conducted in a variety of different ways, all of which consist of the person taking the assessment meeting with the counselor, or whoever is conducting the assessment, to go over the screening.
The following are some of the more common ways that an assessment is conducted:
Diagnostic Interview: During a diagnostic interview, the interviewer goes over the results of the screening and asks follow up questions to get a better idea of the substance use and abuse. This type of interview can be either structured or semi-structured.
Structured Interview: A structured interview is a set of structured questions that makes it easier to obtain basic information as it pertains to substance abuse.
Semi-Structured Interview: A semi-structured interview is conducted by someone with a strong background in the addiction field. The interviewer will likely expand on the structured questions using their knowledge and expertise in the field. This allows them to better cross-examine the person’s substance abuse issues.
How Do I Know If I Need a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
If you or someone you know appears to be struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, it might be beneficial to undergo an evaluation. Some of the signs and symptoms that an assessment might be needed include:
Needing to take a substance regularly in order to feel normal
Knowing that you have a problem but are unable to stop taking the substance you are abusing
Engaging in either risky or even dangerous behavior in order to obtain an illicit substance
Engaging in risky or dangerous behavior as a result of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
A noticeable decline in school or work performance
Spending money you don’t have on drugs or alcohol, leaving yourself in financial peril
A sudden lack of interest in hobbies and activities that you used to enjoy
Are You In Need of a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?
To begin treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, you must first undergo a drug and alcohol assessment in order to help determine the best treatment method for you. It is a crucial first step on the road to recovery. Without a drug and alcohol assessment, it might be difficult for the treatment facility to provide you with the best treatment possible.
At Harmony Ridge, we understand the importance of a drug and alcohol assessment, which is why we provide one to all of our patients before they begin treatment. We know that by conducting assessments, we can help our patients get the best help possible, which is our goal. Contact us today to learn more about our drug and alcohol assessments or schedule a time to take one.
The duration of addiction recovery is a critical factor that significantly influences its effectiveness. It plays a pivotal role in achieving optimal sobriety by allowing you adequate time to heal naturally or respond to therapeutic interventions. This is particularly essential in restoring healthy behaviors and lifestyles, as you need sufficient duration to develop coping mechanisms, address underlying issues, and rebuild your life gradually. Harmony Ridge Recovery Center answers the common question: “How long does drug rehab in Charleston WV take?” We will explore why the duration of rehabs in WV matters and the factors that influence it. Continue reading →
The journey to overcoming opioid addiction finds an unexpected ally in the serene embrace of the Appalachian Mountains. For those seeking alternatives to standard treatment centers, recovery retreats for opioid addiction in the Appalachian mountains present a promising horizon. Amidst the majestic beauty of these ancient mountains, those in need find more than just a retreat from addiction, they embark on a transformative journey. These unconventional retreats blend the therapeutic power of nature with holistic healing practices. As traditional methods may not resonate with everyone, the Appalachians beckon with a different, refreshing path to recovery. Join us as we delve deeper into this innovative approach and its potential to reshape lives. Continue reading →
