DAST-10: Drug Abuse Screening Test — Quick Yes/No Assessment for Problematic Drug Use
Yes/no screening for problematic drug use and consequences.
The Drug Abuse Screening Test (DAST-10) is a concise, evidence-based screening tool designed to identify problematic drug use and related consequences. This quick yes/no assessment is widely used in clinical and community settings to screen for signs of substance misuse, guide brief interventions, and determine whether a more comprehensive evaluation is needed. Taking the DAST-10 can help you or a client better understand potential risks associated with drug use and plan next steps.
Ideal for primary care providers, mental health professionals, and individuals concerned about their own or a loved one’s drug use, this DAST-10 screening focuses on behaviors and consequences rather than the specific substance. The results provide an initial risk level for substance use disorders and are not a diagnostic conclusion. If your score indicates elevated risk, consider follow-up with a healthcare provider, addiction specialist, or local treatment resources for further assessment and support.
Have you used drugs other than alcohol in the past 12 months?
This question screens for any non-alcohol drug use in the last year.
Have you used more than one drug at a time (polydrug use)?
Polydrug use increases risk and complexity of consequences.
Are you always able to stop using drugs when you want to?
This item assesses loss of control; answer "No" if you struggle to stop.
Do you experience memory problems, concentration issues, or blackouts from drug use?
Cognitive effects and blackouts are common consequences of problematic use.
Has your drug use led to legal problems, arrests, or involvement with law enforcement?
Legal consequences are an important indicator of harm from drug use.
Have you neglected responsibilities at work, school, or home because of drug use?
This question assesses social and functional impacts of substance use.
Have you engaged in risky behaviors (e.g., driving under the influence, unsafe sex) while using drugs?
Risky behaviors increase harm to you and others and often accompany problematic use.
Has a family member, friend, physician, or other person expressed concern about your drug use?
External concerns can indicate visible problems related to drug use.
Have you tried to cut down or stop using drugs but were unsuccessful?
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit indicate dependence or loss of control.
Have you experienced withdrawal symptoms or taken drugs to avoid withdrawal?
Physical dependence and withdrawal are key signs of addiction.
Frequently asked questions
The DAST-10 measures consequences and problematic patterns of drug use (excluding alcohol and tobacco) using 10 brief yes/no questions. It screens for behaviors, social/occupational impacts, and physical or psychological problems related to drug use to estimate the risk of a substance use disorder.
No. The DAST-10 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It identifies possible drug-related problems and indicates whether a more thorough clinical assessment is recommended. A healthcare professional or addiction specialist must perform a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose a substance use disorder.
Each 'Yes' answer counts as 1 point; 'No' counts as 0. Scores range from 0 to 10. Typical interpretation: 0 = no problems, 1–2 = low level, 3–5 = moderate, 6–8 = substantial, 9–10 = severe. Higher scores indicate greater likelihood of significant drug-related problems and need for intervention.
If your score falls in the moderate to severe range, seek a professional assessment from a primary care provider, mental health clinician, or addiction specialist. They can offer evidence-based treatments, referrals to counseling or medication-assisted treatment, and safety planning. If you face immediate danger (overdose or severe withdrawal), contact emergency services right away.
Retake the DAST-10 after any significant change in drug use patterns, following an intervention, or periodically (for example, every few months) to monitor progress. Regular screening can help detect changes early and guide ongoing support and treatment decisions.
Responses to the DAST-10 are confidential when used in clinical or counseling settings that protect patient privacy. If you complete the test online or in a program, review the platform's privacy policy. Note that clinicians may need to report if there is risk of harm to yourself or others, in accordance with local laws and ethical obligations.
No. The DAST-10 is designed specifically for drug use other than alcohol and tobacco. For alcohol-related screening, validated tools such as the AUDIT or CAGE questionnaires are more appropriate.
The DAST-10 is suitable for adults in primary care, mental health, occupational health, criminal justice, and community settings. It can be used by clinicians, counselors, or individuals curious about their own drug use patterns. It is not intended for diagnosis without follow-up assessment.
The DAST-10 is brief and typically takes 2–5 minutes to complete. Its brevity makes it practical for routine screening during clinical visits or intake assessments.
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