The Ultrarapid Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST-Lite) and Implications for Neuropathology

Addictions are brain disorders that affect neural pathways that subsume reward, motivation, and memory. Only a small proportion of people who initiate substance use will go on to become addicted (dependent) and there is a continuum of use and associated risks between abstinence and dependence. Screening and brief intervention present the opportunity to identify and intervene in risky substance use. Early intervention, prior to the development of neurological changes, can prevent the development of dependence and encourage reductions in risky behaviors. People identified by screening as being at substantial risk of dependence can be encouraged to enter more structured treatment for their substance use. The ASSIST-Lite screening test offers an approach to screening and brief intervention that is quick and suitable for use in generalist health settings, where it is likely that drug use might be detected prior to the development of dependence.