Addiction Intensity Scale

The first step for anyone using the ERP technique-a step you should take before you even begin reading more about ERP-is to measure the intensity of your addiction. The Addiction Intensity Scale (AIS) on this page can help.

One of the first questions addicts need to ask themselves is, "How addicted am I?" The Addiction Intensity Scale (AIS) can help you answer this question. To use this scale check off all of the items that characterize your addiction. Be truthful.

Addiction Intensity Scale

Addiction Intensity Level	My Score	Criteria
Moderate Addiction	/5 (3+)	Using more than 5 times per week Able to work and pay bills Able to stop all use without help for at least 30 consecutive days Loved ones questioning whether you are getting addicted Spending more than $100 per week on addiction
Severe Addiction	/10 (5+)	Daily use is the rule "Crashes," blackouts, withdrawal symptoms occur Difficulty working, fired from jobs Using more than one substance (e.g., pot and alcohol) Lying to loved ones and friends about use Loved ones urging you to get treatment Some stealing from loved ones only to support addiction Cannot stop all use without help for longer than two weeks Suspended or revoked driver's license Arrested for possession or driving while impaired
Catastrophic Addiction	/11 (6+)	Daily heavy use Cannot work to support self Stealing from loved ones Fighting with loved ones about use Stealing from strangers at least once Owes money to dealers Weight loss, liver problems, or frequent sickness Cannot stop all use without help for longer than four days Spent up to 30 days in jail because of addiction Suspended or revoked professional license Family and friends are forcing you to get help
Terminal Addiction	/10 (5+)	Daily heavy use; near continuous use Cannot stop all use without help for more than 24 hours Homeless or near homeless Regular stealing to support addiction Physical health problems are getting worse Spent more than 30 days in jail because of addiction Have not been able to work at all On probation for addiction-related offenses You feel totally hopeless and unable to stop despite misery Friends and family have given up hope

Overall addiction intensity level:
Overall addiction intensity score:

In each section, your are given one point for each item checked and the total is calculated. If your score for each section is equal to or greater than the score in the parentheses below your score, you meet the criteria for that level of addiction. The highest level for which you meet the criteria is your overall addiction intensity score (AIS).

If you or someone you know meets the criteria for being at least moderately addicted, then ERP therapy can be a great help. If you are catastrophically or terminally addicted then you will also need intensive outpatient and residential help. Do not attempt ERP on your own if your AIS score is that high.

Substance Abuse
Self-Help Test

1. Overcome denial and
automatic behavior
2. AIS - Addiction Intensity Scale
3. Lifestyle Balance Sheet
4. Community support groups
5. Medications to consider
6. Developing new interests

More info...

Substance Abuse Info

Alcohol
Marijuana
Heroin
Cocaine / Crack
Designer Drugs
Hallucinogens

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