How do I know if I have a drinking problem?

Take an alcohol use screening. Answer 12 questions and the screening will generate personalized results based on your age, gender and drinking patterns. Your answers are completely confidential and anonymous.

What is a chemical dependency assessment?

A substance use assessment includes an interview with a counselor to review a person's substance usage and its impact on their daily life and relationships. The assessment may also include:

• A diagnostic test
• Review of medical, legal, mental health and treatment records
• A physical screening
• Assessment of need for detox or withdrawal management services
• Interviews with other people in the person's life
• Assessments should address each individual's unique needs

Check the Getting help page to find out who to call to get an assessment.

How do I get an assessment?

Anyone can request an assessment for themself or for another person. Substance use disorder treatment centers offer assessments, as well as some counties and tribes. Health plans that serve Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare clients also must provide assessments. Call your health plan or county or tribal office for more information.

Check the Getting help page to find out who to call to get an assessment. If you are a tribal member, you can also call your tribal office.

What is substance use disorder

A substance use disorder (SUD), also referred to as addiction, is a primary, chronic illness caused by repeated misuse of a substance or substances. Genetic, psychosocial and environmental factors influence how it develops and manifests itself. The disease is often progressive and can be fatal. It is characterized by continuous or periodic behaviors:

• Impaired control over one's chemical use
• Preoccupation with alcohol or other drugs
• Use despite adverse consequences
• Distortions in thinking, most notably denial.

Alcohol or other substance use disorders may begin with a personal choice to use these substances. However, research shows that for many a physiological dependence soon takes hold. Drug dependence produces significant and lasting changes in brain chemistry and function. These drug-induced changes in brain function may have behavioral consequences, including the defining characteristic of addiction: compulsion to use alcohol or other drugs despite adverse consequences.

Like diabetes or hypertension, addiction is a chronic medical illness that can be treated successfully.

What is recovery?

Recovery is the ongoing process of overcoming active alcohol and other substance use disorders. The goal is to reduce or eliminate problems associated with substance use. It is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life and strive to reach their full potential.

How do I appeal if my county denies treatment services?

If a county agency has denied you service or benefits:

You have the right to appeal the decision

What is a Rule 25 assessment?

Anyone can request an assessment for their self or for another person. Under the state's Rule 25 (similar to a state law), all county or tribal agencies must provide an assessment when requested. Health plans that serve Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare clients also must provide assessments. Call your health plan or county or tribal office for more information. Check this list for Rule 25 County Referral Numbers (PDF).

What is an alcohol problem?

Researchers use the term alcohol problems to refer to any type of condition caused by drinking that harms the drinker, jeopardizes the drinker's well-being or places others at risk. Alcohol problems can result from even moderate drinking, for example, driving under the influence (DUI), drinking during pregnancy or drinking when taking certain medicines. Alcohol problems range from occasional binge drinking to alcohol abuse or dependence (alcoholism).

Where can I refer someone for treatment or to get help?

The first step in getting help is to have a chemical dependency assessment done by a professional.

Check the Getting help page to find out who to call to get an assessment.

Who can I call if I have questions about appeals?

Call Appeals Information before filing a written appeal at:

• 651-431-3600 in the Twin Cities metro area
• 800-657-3510 outside the metro area
• TTY: 800-627-3529

How do I report or file a complaint about a treatment facility or a grant-funded program?

How do I file a complaint about maltreatment issues for clients in a specific program?

Contact the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC): Call their toll-free number at 844-880-1574 if you suspect maltreatment of a vulnerable adult or if you are aware of an unexplained injury of a resident/patient/client of a licensed facility.

For Minors: If you suspect maltreatment of a child under 18, contact the Office of Health Facility Complaints at health.ohfc-complaints@state.mn.us or call 651-201-4200. If the maltreatment is by someone else, contact child protection services in the county where the child lives.