Salt Lake County - FAQ, Substance Abuse

The Division serves many functions in the community. These include acting as the local substance abuse authority, overseeing treatment and prevention services in the community, pursuing and tracking funding, managing and coordinating funds, providing planning and program development, providing training for professionals and the community, establishing service priorities, and providing comprehensive, system-wide planning and evaluation as well as need assessments.

Does the Salt Lake County Division of Substance Abuse Services actually treat clients?

The Division of Substance Abuse Services does not treat clients. Clients are assessed by the Division's Assessment and Referral Unit and referred to any one of a number of community-based treatment providers which the Division oversees.

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I think someone close to me or I may have a problem with drugs/alcohol. What should I do?

If you suspect that you or someone close to you might be struggling with drug/alcohol abuse call our office at 801 468-2009. One of our assessment and referral specialists can help to place you or your loved one in an appropriate treatment program.

I have a problem with drugs/alcohol but I don't have the financial means to pay for treatment. What can I do?

Substance abuse treatment is available to all citizens of Salt Lake County regardless of their ability to pay. Treatment fees are adjusted for every income level.

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What are some signs and symptoms of substance abuse?

Common signs and symptoms of substance abuse may include:

Change in attitude or behavior patterns
Withdrawal from family, lack of motivation for school,
work, pastimes, etc.
Anxious, paranoid behavior
Poor memory, inability to concentrate
Rapid or slurred speech
Abnormal sleep patterns
Missing money or valuables from home
Bloodshot eyes, appetite loss, pale appearance,
sweats, chills, trembling, stomach problems

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What is substance abuse prevention? Does it work?

Substance abuse prevention is the process of actively creating conditions and promoting personal traits that will place individuals at lower risk for abusing alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs, legal and prescription drugs, and inhalants. While drug use rates fluctuate concerted prevention efforts have proven themselves effective in reducing rates of drug/alcohol use especially among young people.

What is substance abuse treatment? Does it work?

Substance abuse treatment addresses and seeks to remedy the many factors and issues which cause people to become addicted to drugs and alcohol. Treatment teaches coping strategies for dealing with drug cravings and dealing with relapse if and when it occurs. Treatment has been shown to reduce drug use by up to 60 percent. Success rates for treatment are comparable to those of any other chronic illness such as diabetes or asthma.