Across Mississippi, substance use and alcohol use disorder are wreaking havoc on individuals and families alike. The early detection and treatment of a drinking or drug issue can make all the difference in a more positive outcome for all involved, preventing the escalation to more serious addictions and disorders. SBIRT is a free online tool that can help identify, address, and find treatment for substance and alcohol use problems in teens and adults. What is SBIRT and what can you expect from this process? We’re here to break down the ins and outs of this fantastic free resource!
Substance & Alcohol Use Disorder Screening Tool
When you take an SBIRT assessment, all you do is click into a 100% online free assessment. It’ll ask a number of questions to help ascertain if there is a problem with drugs or alcohol and suggest nearby treatment centers. It’s simple, easy, and free. SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief, Intervention, Referral to Treatment.
Screening: Identifying Substance Use or Alcohol Use Concerns
The first step is to identify if there is a problem. If you have a teen you are concerned about, a spouse or family member who seems to have a problem, or if you yourself are questioning if you have an issue with drugs or alcohol, it’s a good idea to take the SBIRT assessment. This online quizlet will help guide if you or a loved one is at risk for substance or alcohol abuse and then take it a step further to determine if there exists a problem currently. It is free, quick, and confidential.
Brief Intervention for Substance or Alcohol Use Disorder
If the SBIRT assessment reveals an issue with substance abuse or alcohol use disorder, the next step is a brief intervention to learn more about the symptoms and causes of the use. SBIRT.ms is an all-online setting, so treatment centers are suggested after you complete your assessment. Based on the responses to your questions, you are provided with several possible treatment facilities near you. Technically, this counts as a referral to treatment. You can select a center immediately, or visit the various suggested treatment facilities and see which may be a good fit for you. It’s always a good idea to visit the various treatment centers and determine which feels the most comfortable to you. It’s vitally important to have a treatment facility that meets your needs and where you feel you can progress toward your goals.
Once you’ve selected your treatment facility, the Brief Intervention portion is completed on-site at your chosen treatment clinic. Most often, healthcare providers will:
- Discuss the results of the screening: What was revealed through the screening and the use disorder
- Provide personalized feedback and treatment suggestions: The impact and implications of the substance or alcohol use, as well as potential treatment options to regain control over life and work toward a healthier lifestyle
- Set goals: Together with the healthcare provider at the treatment center, achievable goals will be set, along with the actual steps necessary to reach these goals
Referral to Treatment for Substance Use Disorder or Alcohol Use Disorder in Mississippi
The next course of action is setting up a personalized treatment plan that incorporates the objectives and steps discussed previously. Your therapists and mental health clinicians will suggest a variety of approaches from inpatient or residential treatment to individual and group therapy. As you progress toward your goals, your mental healthcare provider will work with you to assess progress, coordinate care, and provide ongoing support in your recovery.
Take the free, online Mississippi SBIRT quiz now with just a click!