Personal, medical, and family history

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Exploring and discussing the client’s background, from birth to the present, can help both the client and AOD worker to understand the beginnings of AOD use and mental health symptoms, and the impact on the client’s life, as well as help the client develop self-compassion [389]. Enquire about:

  • Family context (including family history of AOD use and mental disorders).
  • Child and adolescent experiences.
  • School experiences (e.g., academic performance, social experiences, bullying).
  • Traumatic experiences.
  • Work history.
  • Leisure pursuits and personal interests.
  • Financial and housing information.
  • Sexual/marital adjustment.
  • Legal issues and illegal behaviour.
  • Medical history (including current and past medications, psychiatric medication).
  • Current and past pharmacological/psychological treatment.