According to ASAM, what does a severity rating of 3 indicate?

The severity rating of 3 according to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) indicates "significant difficulties or impairment." This classification helps counselors and treatment providers assess the level of distress a person is experiencing due to substance use. A rating of 3 reflects that the individual is facing notable challenges that affect their daily functioning, social relationships, or quality of life, but do not reach the level of extreme impairment that would warrant a higher severity rating.

The nuanced understanding of these severity ratings is crucial for determining the appropriate level of care and treatment interventions needed for individuals seeking help with substance use disorders. Ratings like this help to create a clearer picture of a patient’s needs and informs the development of an effective treatment plan tailored to their specific circumstances.