Programs that conduct an evaluation to determine whether an individual has a substance use disorder based on a pathological set of behaviours related to use of that substance as well as the nature and extent of the problem. Diagnostic criteria include inability to control or limit the amount taken or the frequency; intense cravings; continuing use despite problems with work, school or family/social obligations or interpersonal problems; risky use, e.g., diving a car or operating machinery while under the influence; or evidence of pharmacological indicators (tolerance and withdrawal symptoms), the adjustment the body makes as it attempts to adapt to the continued and frequent use of a substance.

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Programs that provide assistance and support for individuals who are physically dependent on substances of any kind during the withdrawal period. Detoxification is a medical regimen aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal by systematically reducing the amount of the addictive substance in a patient’s body, providing reasonable control of active withdrawal symptoms and/or averting a life-threatening medical crisis related to the substance. Detoxification in generally conducted under the supervision of a physician, can take place in a wide variety of settings and at a number of levels of intensity within these settings and has three stages: evaluation, stabilization and fostering patient readiness for and entry into treatment.

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Programs that provide information about substance use disorders (including the substances most commonly used and their effects, the diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders, screening and diagnostic procedures and methods of treatment) and/or which offer any of a variety of services that focus on substance use prevention for people of all ages who are at risk. Included may be printed materials or videos that address the subject; psycho-educational and skill building activities; structured groups which focus on family dynamics, problem-solving, self-esteem and similar issues; and presentations in schools and agencies and to family groups regarding the dangers of alcohol and drug use and smoking, the signs of substance use disorders, the legal consequences of illegal substance use and how to get help.

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Community and hospital-based programs that provide a variety of inpatient, outpatient and residential treatment services for individuals who have problems related to excessive use of alcohol and/or use of other drugs.

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Community and hospital-based programs that provide a variety of services for individuals who have problems related to excessive use of alcohol and/or use of other drugs and need support to commit to a treatment program, survive a substance use related crisis or sustain an abstinent lifestyle.

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Programs that provide alcohol and other drug-free congregate living arrangements which facilitate the return to the community of individuals who are recovering from an alcohol and/or other drug use disorder, who may be leaving an inpatient or residential treatment program and who need ongoing support to sustain an abstinent lifestyle.

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