Articles About Assessment

Addiction · November 1, 2026 · 11 min read

Stimulant Treatment Level of Care Assessment: Choosing Inpatient or Outpatient

Find out what clinicians may ask in a stimulant treatment assessment. See how outpatient and inpatient settings differ. Learn why recommendations and treatment length can change.

Addiction · October 24, 2026 · 7 min read

Stimulant Use Disorder DSM 5 Criteria: Severity and Evaluation

A patient-friendly guide to the DSM-5-TR criteria for stimulant use disorder, severity levels, the substances included, and what clinicians consider during an evaluation.

Addiction · October 24, 2026 · 10 min read

Stimulant Use Heart Health Risks: What Studies Show Over Time

This guide explains how prescribed and nonmedical stimulant use may affect the heart. It lists symptoms that mean you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room now. It also covers what a heart-health assessment can involve.

Addiction · October 23, 2026 · 10 min read

Prescription Stimulant Misuse Signs: When to Seek Help

Discover how to spot a pattern of prescription stimulant misuse without viewing a single side effect as proof. Learn when symptoms become an emergency and what to discuss with a professional.

Addiction · October 23, 2026 · 10 min read

Physical Signs of Stimulant Use: Highs and Health Risks

Find out which physical changes may link to stimulant use, why looks don't prove what was taken, how assessment works, and when to call 911.

Addiction · October 22, 2026 · 11 min read

Benzodiazepine Addiction Signs: Behavior Changes and Risks

This page explains how to spot risky sedative or benzodiazepine use. It also clarifies the difference between dependence and a use disorder. Learn how to arrange a safe assessment.

Addiction · October 22, 2026 · 13 min read

Stimulant Addiction Signs: Spotting Patterns and Getting Care

See how to identify repeating signs of stimulant use disorder. Tell them apart from urgent toxicity. Prepare for a professional assessment.

Addiction · October 22, 2026 · 10 min read

Signs of Drug Addiction: How to Talk Without Blame

Learn how to recognize possible physical, behavioral, and life-impacting changes, why they are not proof of addiction, and how to seek a professional assessment or urgent help.

Treatment · October 16, 2026 · 10 min read

Prepare for Drug Treatment Appointment: What to Bring and Expect

A practical guide to getting ready for a first drug-treatment appointment: what to bring, what to ask, what an assessment may involve, and what to expect if inpatient care is discussed.

Family & Loved Ones · October 14, 2026 · 9 min read

Signs of Opioid Use in Loved One: Spotting Early Warning Signs

Shifts in actions or looks may cause worry, yet they do not prove opioid use or opioid use disorder. Find out what to watch for, when to act fast, and ways to suggest an assessment.

Addiction · August 14, 2026 · 11 min read

Behavioral Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder: Spotting Recurring Patterns

See how alcohol use disorder can change behavior. Learn why one event does not make a diagnosis. Also find out what may cause AUD and how to get an assessment.

Addiction · July 2, 2026 · 9 min read

Fear of Alcohol Use Disorder Diagnosis: What to Expect

Afraid to be evaluated for alcohol use disorder? Read about what an appointment may involve. Learn what a diagnosis does and does not mean. Also, see how to ask about privacy and next steps.