Alcohol, drugs and addictions
Programs and services
What is a substance use disorder?
The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines a “substance use disorder” as:
“A medical illness consisting of a cluster of cognitive, behavioral and physiological symptoms caused by repeated use of a substance or substances. Characterized by clinically significant impairments in health, social function, and impaired control over substance use."
Substance use disorder is common and treatable
Like all diseases, substance use disorder requires the right care. It affects people from all communities and all age groups. Substance use disorder is common, recurrent and often serious, but it is treatable, and many people do recover.Problem gambling and tobacco help
Problem gambling
Help is available for people who have a gambling problem, and many people qualify for free treatment.
Tobacco addiction
Tobacco is a highly addictive drug, one that is a leading cause of death in Minnesota.
Tobacco addiction help
Prevention
The department works with communities across Minnesota to prevent alcohol and drug abuse before it starts.
Assessment
A substance use assessment includes an interview with a counselor to review a person's substance use 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 services
- Interviews with other people in the person's life
Assessments should address each person's unique needs.
Check the Getting help page to find out who to call to get an assessment
Treatment
Treatment services include:
- Residential and outpatient programs
- Detox centers
- Withdrawal management programs
- Opioid treatment programs
Many insurance policies will pay for substance use disorder treatment. No insurance? People who qualify can get help paying for treatment.
Behavioral Health Fund Eligibility Guidelines (PDF)
You can search for substance use disorder treatment programs near you at the license lookup tool.
Safe Recovery Sites
The Minnesota Legislature recently approved funding for Safe Recovery Sites run by independent organizations. The primary function of these sites is to save lives through overdose and disease prevention.
Minnesota Recovery Connection
Recovery community organizations are non-profit groups led by members of local recovery communities. They provide education about recovery, outreach and peer recovery support services. Minnesota Recovery Connection is a recovery community organization with a mission of strengthening the recovery community through peer-to-peer support, public education and advocacy.
Support groups
Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are where people can talk about their experiences, strengths and hopes with each other to solve the problems they share.