Addiction severity index

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Philadelphia VAMC

== Addiction Severity Index ==

The Addiction Severity Index (ASI) is a widely used assessment tool in the field of substance abuse treatment and research. It was developed in the late 1980s by Thomas McLellan and his colleagues at the Treatment Research Institute in Philadelphia. The ASI is designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of an individual's substance use and related problems across seven domains.

History

The ASI was originally developed to address the need for a standardized and reliable instrument to assess the severity of substance use disorders. Over the years, it has been widely adopted by treatment programs, research studies, and criminal justice systems to evaluate the needs of individuals with substance use issues.

Domains

The ASI assesses the following seven domains:

1. Medical: This domain evaluates the individual's physical health, including any medical conditions or concerns related to substance use. 2. Employment/Support Status: This domain assesses the individual's employment status, financial situation, and social support network. 3. Drug Use: This domain examines the individual's patterns of drug use, including the types of substances used and the frequency of use. 4. Alcohol Use: This domain focuses on the individual's alcohol consumption, including the quantity and frequency of drinking. 5. Mental Health: This domain evaluates the individual's mental health status, including any psychiatric symptoms or diagnoses. 6. Legal: This domain assesses the individual's involvement with the criminal justice system and any legal issues related to substance use. 7. Family/Social Relationships: This domain examines the individual's family relationships, social support, and living situation.

Administration

The ASI is typically administered by trained clinicians or researchers in a face-to-face interview format. The assessment takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete and provides a detailed profile of the individual's substance use and related problems.

Use in Research and Treatment

The ASI is widely used in both research and clinical settings to assess the severity of substance use disorders and guide treatment planning. It helps clinicians and researchers identify areas of need and develop tailored interventions to address the individual's specific challenges.