Information About Chemical Use Interviews

What is a Chemical Use Interview?

  • A Chemical Use Interview is the process through which the interviewer gathers accurate, usable information while validating the student, acknowledging their culture, lifestyle, and values.
  • The MN “Rule 25 Assessment Tool” is used for a Chemical Use Interview. This tool is used to determine where an individuals’ use pattern places them on the continuum of dependency. This continuum is based on the DSM-IV-R abuse and dependency criteria.

Is a Chemical Use Interview the same thing as a Rule 25 Assessment?

  • A Chemical Use Interview is consistent with Rule 25 trainings and utilizes the “Rule 25 Assessment Tool.” However, the person administering the “Rule 25 Assessment Tool” at Minnesota State University, Mankato,
    for the purpose of a Chemical Use Interview, is not a Licensed Alcohol Drug Counselor (LADC) or a treatment provider. Even though the same tool is used, they may be viewed differently depending on the reason for the Assessment or Interview. If you have questions about the differences please contact 507-389-5689.

What kind of information is gathered during an Interview?

  • Events that led up to need for Chemical Use Interview
  • Prior chemical health treatment history
  • Past and current chemical use patterns
  • Behavior changes with chemical use
  • Relationships – significant relationships, children
  • Family relationships – past, present, siblings
  • Recreational and social network
  • Work and school history
  • Legal history
  • Mental health – past, present, hospitalizations, treatment, medications
  • Abuse history – emotional, physical, sexual
  • Medical issues – disabilities, hospitalizations, medications
  • Independent living skills
  • Housing

How will this Chemical Use Interview help?

  • Interview goals are to bring harm reduction into student lives, provide services and help to assist
    students to successfully manage one’s life.
  • This information will also be used to determine pathological signs of abuse and dependency, as
    well as treatment options that would best serve the individual.