Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT), what is it:

SBIRT stands for Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment. It’s a public health approach used in medical, mental health, and community settings to identify and help people with risky or harmful substance use before it develops into a more serious disorder. 

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Screening

• Purpose: To quickly assess whether a person is at risk for substance use problems.

• Method: Standardized questionnaires or short conversations (e.g., AUDIT, DAST, CRAFFT).

• Focus: Alcohol, drug use, sometimes other risky health behaviors.

• Goal: Identify individuals who may benefit from early intervention.

  
  

2. Brief Intervention

• Purpose: To increase awareness of substance use risks and motivate change.

• Method: A short, structured conversation (often 5–15 minutes) using motivational interviewing techniques.

• Focus: Providing feedback, exploring ambivalence, and helping the person consider healthier choices.

• Goal: Encourage reduction or cessation of risky use.

  
  

3. Referral to Treatment

• Purpose: For individuals whose screening indicates a more severe substance use disorder.

• Method: Connecting them with specialized treatment providers (inpatient, outpatient, counseling, recovery programs).

• Goal: Ensure those needing intensive support receive it quickly.

  
  

 Why SBIRT is valuable

• Early detection prevents escalation.

• Cost-effective and reduces strain on healthcare and justice systems.

• Can be integrated into primary care, ERs, schools, mental health clinics, and community programs.

• Helps normalize conversations about substance use and reduces stigma.

Shervan K Shahhian