Questions to ask when exploring drug treatment

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Different substances and circumstances need different care. Use these questions to prepare for assessment, not to choose a treatment plan yourself.

Ask for an assessment that considers the whole situation

Health Canada describes a range of treatment and support options rather than a single approach for everyone. Tell the qualified professional about the substances and prescribed medicines you use, your health concerns, and what you want help with. You do not need to publish that information in a comment, direct message, or contact request.

Source: Health Canada: Substance use treatment.

Who will assess my needs?
How are physical health, mental health, and current medications considered?
What happens if your service cannot provide the care I need?

Ask about medication and withdrawal before making changes

If you use benzodiazepines regularly, talk to your prescriber before reducing or stopping them. CAMH explains that withdrawal can be serious. Do not change a prescription or attempt a withdrawal schedule based on this page.

Source: CAMH: Benzodiazepines.

How would my withdrawal needs be assessed?
Who manages medications during the program?
How do you work with my current prescriber?
For opioid use, what medication treatment and ongoing supports are available?

Discuss support beyond withdrawal

Health Canada explains that withdrawal management alone is not an effective or safe treatment for opioid use disorder. Ask a qualified provider about ongoing care, including medication options and other support. If an opioid overdose is suspected, call 911; naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose while emergency help is needed.

Source: Health Canada: Substance use treatment · Health Canada: Opioid overdose.

What follow-up is planned after the initial phase of care?
What happens if I return to use or need a different level of support?
What harm-reduction information and services should I know about?

Make the practical details explicit

You are allowed to ask how a proposed program would fit into your life. Request clear answers about scheduling, transport, family contact, total cost, and what is included. Keep a short list of unanswered questions so that you can follow up with the right person rather than guessing.

A personal introduction, if you want one

Karl can help you understand the ART intake process and make an introduction with your permission. ART assesses whether its care is appropriate. You can also ask ConnexOntario about other services. Asking Karl a question does not commit you to ART or to any treatment program.

Sources & further reading

Program details and access arrangements can change. Confirm them directly with the provider. These sources inform the guide; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of Karl or ART.

A question is enough.

Ask Karl about the ART referral process by email. No medical history is needed in your contact request.

Ask Karl to email me Open the printable intake checklist