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Substance Use Disorders Case Study

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Evaluating for Substance Use Disorders From reviewing the scenario of Maricella’s case, it is quite evident that she has experienced more than one of the risk factors that would ultimately put her at risk for developing a substance use disorder. Some risk factors that could potentially contribute to any instance of substance abuse are: drug availability, academic failure, lack of parental involvement, poor social skills, gender, race, and family history of substance abuse (Miller, Forcehimes, & Zweben, 2011). These are all risk factors that are present in Maricella’s life; however, there are also protective factors present as well, but there are some that can be implemented also. While Maricella has many risk factors present in her life, …show more content…

When utilizing this I will be able to determine the drug that is used, how frequently it is used, problems that have resulted from the use, degree of drug dependence, any presence of medical harm, and if she has any motivation to change (Miller, Forcehimes, & Zweben, 2011). Through the collection of this information, I would be able to determine that prescription pain medication and alcohol would be the drugs being evaluated and the reason for treatment. The reasoning for this is because not only has she been exposed to drinking by her family, but she has also tried it. Which could develop into a problem, if not addressed. Also, overdosing on prescription pain medication that was not hers points to more potential problems, if not addressed right away. I would discuss Maricella’s strengths and weaknesses with her, with particular emphasis on her strengths, what she finds enjoyable, and how those things together can be utilized to benefit treatment (Miller, Forcehimes, & Zweben, 2011). According what is listed in the DSM-V, Maricella does not meet the diagnostic criteria listed for a substance use disorder. The reasoning for this is because she only drinks on occasion, and claims to have never been intoxicated. I believe the best course of action to take in this case would be to help Maricella keep her occasional drinking from becoming an addiction, and to keep in contact with her to avoid another potential suicide

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