What does the DAST primarily screen for?

The Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST) primarily screens for substances other than alcohol. It is designed to identify individuals who may have problems with drug use, including illicit drugs, prescription medications being misused, and other substances that can lead to substance abuse issues.

The DAST is a self-reported questionnaire that assesses the extent of drug use and the negative impacts it can have on a person's life, which encompasses a variety of drugs beyond just alcohol. The focus on non-alcohol substances provides crucial information for clinicians and counselors to develop appropriate treatment and intervention strategies tailored to a person’s specific substance use profile.

This makes the DAST a valuable tool in the assessment of drug-related problems, as it expands the understanding of substance use beyond the realm of alcohol, addressing a wider range of potential issues that may not be captured by alcohol-focused screenings.