What is the "Addiction Severity Index"?

The Addiction Severity Index, or ASI, is an interview that appraises history, frequency, and outcomes of

alcohol and drug use, as well as five additional domains that are commonly linked to drug use: medical, legal, employment, social/family, and psychological functioning. The higher the score on the ASI indicates a greater need for treatment in each of these particular areas. The ASI scores can be used to profile patients’ problem areas and then plan effective treatment.

According to Alcohol Rehab.Com, "The ASI focuses on the big picture. It takes into consideration that addiction to drugs or alcohol can result from life events that precede, occur at the same time as, or result from substance abuse problems. Rather than focusing on the client’s substance abuse, the ASI highlights seven potential problem areas" (alcoholrehab.com, n.d.).

Overall, studies typically conclude that the Addiction Severity Index is a consistent and accurate tool for assessing clients and their substance abuse issues. The ASI is able to successfully identify the client’s problem area in which they are experiencing the greatest difficulties, such as alcohol or drug addiction, or legal or familial problems. Once a client’s psycho-social issues are identified, an appropriate course of treatment may be administered.

Read more about Addiction Severity Index at My Addicted Mind.Com

Source:
Alcohol Rehab.Com website: Addiction Severity Index (ASI). Retrieved July 6, 2014 online from http://alcoholrehab.com/addiction-articles/addiction-severity-index-asi/