In assessing need for substance abuse treatment, patients frequently underestimate their consumption. This underestimation may be attributed to denial, one of the hallmarks of the disease process of substance abuse. Patients may be asked about their drug or drugs of choice and the frequency, amount, and method of use.  CAGE is one type of evaluation:

• C – Has anyone ever felt you should C ut down on your drinking?
• A – Have people A nnoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
• G – Have you ever felt G uilty about your drinking?
• E – Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning (E ye-opener) to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover? 

To obtain a drug evaluation  / alcohol evaluation in Scottsdale contact Stonewall Institute in Phoenix, Arizona at 602-535-6468.