What is the first step in the treatment and recovery continuum of care?

The first step in the treatment and recovery continuum of care is identification. This process involves recognizing and acknowledging the presence of substance use issues or addictive behaviors. Identification is crucial because it lays the groundwork for the entire treatment journey. It often includes understanding the individual's patterns of use, the impact of these behaviors on their life, and their readiness for change.

In the continuum of care, identification leads to assessment, where a more detailed evaluation is conducted to determine the severity of the substance use disorder and to inform the creation of a personalized treatment plan. Identification also helps individuals and their support systems realize the need for professional help and establishes a pathway toward stabilization and recovery.

The other options represent subsequent stages within the continuum. Stabilization occurs after identification, focusing on ensuring the individual's safety and addressing immediate substance-related issues. Relapse prevention is a later stage, concentrating on strategies to maintain sobriety and address triggers that could lead to a return to substance use. Recognizing these stages as sequential emphasizes the importance of effective identification as the initial step in successful treatment and recovery.