SBIRT in Colorado

Connecting health and substance use

SBIRT in Colorado, a program of Peer Assistance Services, promotes the practice of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment throughout Colorado. Brief screening identifies unhealthy alcohol or other substance use and facilitates meaningful conversations between healthcare professionals and patients. Brief advice from a trusted provider has been shown to motivate individuals to change their substance use which can help prevent future health problems. When healthcare professionals use SBIRT it demonstrates a commitment to patient-centered care and sends a message that substance use screening is simply a part of overall health care.

Substance use and mental health self-screens

Answering a few short questions about substance use, and recent emotions and mood is a quick way to determine how substance use or mental health challenges may be affecting you. Substance use increases the risk for health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, dementia, depression, and cancer. Substance use and mental health issues can also affect a person’s relationships, family life, school, and work. Anonymous, confidential self-screenings help identify these issues early so that you can get the support you need to take charge of your health.