What is the purpose of the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs (GAIN)?

The Global Appraisal of Individual Needs (GAIN) is specifically designed to assess treatment needs for individuals facing issues related to substance use and mental health. It serves as a comprehensive tool that collects a wide range of information about a person's background, health, and identifying factors that contribute to their treatment needs. By using a structured assessment, practitioners can better understand an individual's situation, which helps in creating tailored treatment plans to address their specific challenges.

While there are tools available to diagnose mental disorders, measure addiction severity, or evaluate personality traits, the primary focus of the GAIN is on assessing the broader treatment needs of individuals. This approach allows for a more holistic understanding of a client’s conditions, which is essential in developing effective interventions and support strategies within treatment settings.