FAQs

1. I think I have a substance abuse problem - What should I do?
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   The important thing is to get a professional assessment so that you can get help in the right level of care for you. We have adolescent and adult programs, and many levels of care; (e.g.,detox, residential, intensive outpatient, partial hospital, and outpatient programs). We also have many specialized treatment programs. We have provided a list of all of our Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment facilities. You can call any of them for a telephone screening. If you do not meet their program's criteria, they will refer you to a more appropriate level of care. Alcohol Screening

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2. What do I do if I don't have medical insurance? I can't afford to pay for treatment!
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   Please don't let that stop you from getting help – Contact our listed treatment agencies. Many of them are contracted with this Department to provide services to all Rhode Islanders who are eligible based on total household income. In addition, other social service programs may be available to assist you in paying. All of our agencies will work with you to best determine how services will be paid for.

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3. How can I know for sure if someone I know has a substance abuse problem?
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   According to the DSM-IV, American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) Substance Abuse, (and this includes alcohol or drugs), is characterised by someone having 1 of the following, occurring in a 12 month period:

   • Recurrent use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations (e.g., work, home, school)
   • Recurrent use in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving, operating machinery)
   • Recurrent substance related legal problems, (e.g., disorderly conduct, DWIs
   • Continued use despite knowledge of negative consequences (e.g., family, financial, emotional, social problems, hangovers, physical fights).

   Substance Dependence is manifested by the occurance of 3 or more of these in a 12 month period:

   • Change in tolerance (Increase or decrease in the amount you need to get the effect that you want).
   • Withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not used.
   • The substance is taken in larger amounts or for a longer period of time than was intended.
   • There is a persistent desire to cut down or control the substance use.
   • A great deal of time is spent on obtaining the substance, using it, or recovering from its effects.
   • Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of using the substance.
   • The substance is used despite knowledge of negative consequences.

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4. What are the principals of effective treatment for substance abuse disorders?
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   The National Institute of Drug Abuse has published a research-based guide that summarizes otherinformation and FAQs about effective and evidence-based treatment.

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5. How do I find out about prevention programs?
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   There are 35 municipal coalitions covering all of the state’s communities.

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