By Tommy Blass, Northern Bridges Recovery
When someone hears the words chemical health assessment, their first reaction is often anxiety or resistance. It can feel like a test you might fail, or a hoop you’re being forced to jump through because of a DUI or court involvement. However, a chemical health assessment is one of the most important early intervention tools we have. And when used correctly, it can be genuinely helpful rather than punitive.
I want to break down what a chemical health assessment is, why it matters, and what you can realistically expect from the process, especially here in Minnesota.
The purpose of a chemical health assessment
At its core, a chemical health assessment is designed to answer one key question: Is there a substance-related problem that needs attention? It’s not about labeling someone as an “addict.” It’s not treatment. It’s about identifying where a person falls on a spectrum of substance use, ranging from non-problematic use to a more severe substance use disorder. When done honestly and transparently, assessments can:
- Catch potential problems early, before they become life-altering
- Help courts and the Department of Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS) determine risk and safety
- Guide people toward the right level of support, not more than necessary, not less
Chemical health assessments are built on standards created by ASAM—the American Society of Addiction Medicine. ASAM provides evidence-based criteria, so evaluations aren’t arbitrary or based on personal opinion.
Who needs a chemical health assessment?
Chemical health assessments are often court-ordered and required by DVS. They may be part of probation terms, for license reinstatement, or ignition interlock consideration. Because driver’s licenses are always revoked after a DUI, courts and DVS use assessments to evaluate the risk of recidivism (the likelihood of repeating the behavior). If the state is going to give your license back, they want confidence that you’ll be safe on the road.
On rare occasions, assessments may be part of custody or family court cases. They’re also valuable when someone wants an outside professional opinion, even without legal pressure.
What to expect from your assessment
Assessments are a conversation between two people. There’s nothing to prepare for. You’re sharing your personal experience. One of the most important things to understand is this: There is a standard, but no rigid script for the conversation. It should feel conversational.
Counselors follow ASAM guidelines, but they don’t all ask the same exact questions in the same exact way. That’s intentional. Sometimes a question needs deeper probing to avoid misunderstandings. For example: “Have you had a hangover?” versus “Have you had headaches, nausea, or anxiety after drinking?” Two people might answer the first question very differently, even if their experiences are similar.
The Six ASAM dimensions
Every chemical health assessment evaluates six dimensions that together paint a full picture of someone’s situation:
1. Acute Intoxication or Withdrawal Potential: This looks at whether there’s a risk of withdrawal or evidence of chronic use that may impair judgment and decision-making.
2. Biomedical Conditions and Complications: Do you have chronic or acute medical conditions? Are you on medications that don’t mix well with alcohol or drugs? Even legal prescriptions can increase risk.
3. Emotional, Behavioral, or Cognitive Conditions: This is especially relevant for younger people, where anxiety and depression diagnoses are common. Sometimes, identifying a co-occurring mental health condition is necessary for insurance coverage of inpatient treatment.
4. Readiness for Change: How motivated are you? How much encouragement, structure, or accountability might you need for treatment to work?
5. Relapse or Continued Use Potential: Have there been past attempts to cut back or stop? What’s the likelihood of continued use without support?
6. Recovery Environment: Is your environment stable? Are you employed? Do you have supportive family or friends? Or are you surrounded by ongoing triggers?
Determining problematic vs. non-problematic use
Assessments look at patterns, not just one event. For example, someone with multiple offenses who drinks 4–5 times per week may raise red flags. Someone with a first-time DUI who drinks once or twice a month may fall into non-problematic use. There is an important distinction between having a substance use disorder and making a poor decision (like driving when you shouldn’t have). The assessment is meant to sort that out.
Who sees the assessment?
The information is shared only with relevant parties, which always include you (the client), the assessor (typically an LSW), and, as necessary, it may include your attorney, a probation officer, DVS, and sometimes the court (more common in Wisconsin). In custody cases, additional parties may be involved. Because this is a multi-dimensional tool, it’s used in several legal and clinical contexts.
Final Thoughts
A chemical health assessment isn’t about punishment; it’s about clarity, safety, and prevention. When done well, it can:
- Keep people from repeating mistakes
- Prevent deeper substance-related harm
- Provide courts with fair, evidence-based guidance
- Help individuals get the right level of support (nothing more, nothing less)
At Northern Bridges Recovery, we believe assessments should be honest, respectful, and rooted in real understanding, not fear. Transparency matters. And early intervention can change the entire trajectory of someone’s life.
If you’re facing an assessment or just have questions, it’s okay to ask for help. Sometimes that step alone makes all the difference.
For more information about chemical health assessments, visit our website to learn more about our services or visit our frequently asked questions.