Why Are There People Asking So Many Questions

If you just entered treatment for a mental health disorder or a substance abuse problem, you might be wondering why different people are asking you so many questions.  You probably already have so much on your mind including what will be involved in treatment, will treatment help me, and many others.

Part of the reason treatment professionals ask many questions is they want to provide you with the best possible treatment experience.  They want to know about the symptoms you have been having, when these symptoms started, what substances you have used, and many other questions related to substance abuse and your mental health.  You will also be asked about your family history, social history, and psychological history.  These questions serve a purpose and are designed to get to know you better and to conduct what is called an assessment.  An assessment is necessary because it will help your team of professionals determine the best possible treatment for your specific needs.

In addition, during an assessment, the person asking you questions can also provide you with support and encouragement.  You can ask questions and communicate any concerns you have.  If this is your first time in a residential treatment facility, you might have questions about your daily routine, phone calls, visits, rules of the facility, or what activities you will be involved with.

Questions will also be asked about your family and general information about your marital status, whether currently in a relationship, job, education, social activities, friends, and where you live.  You may also be asked about your medical history.  One important question you will be asked has to do with legal issues you might have upon entering treatment.

You will be asked about your use of drugs and alcohol, and if this is the reason you are in treatment, be honest.  Explain to the interviewer about the nature of your drug use, how long you have been using drugs and/or alcohol, and how much you use.  You might also wish to explain how drug or alcohol use has negatively affected you.

A thorough mental health assessment will be conducted to assess for how you feel most days and if there is a family history of any mental health disorders.  If you do not know your family history, that is okay.  Maybe you can find out at another time and share it with one of your counselors.  You will want to describe thoughts and feelings you have and how you deal with emotions such as anger or frustration.  You might want to share if you feel depressed or anxious about anything and when these feelings started.

There are a lot of questions you will be asked when beginning treatment and during treatment.  All of the questions are designed specifically for you so the treatment team can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.  These are all important questions and should be answered truthfully and if you do not understand something, ask for help.