What is the Craving Severity Scale?
The Craving Severity Scale (CSS) is an Arabic questionnaire used in addiction treatment to measure how strong a person’s craving for drugs is. Craving — an intense urge or longing to use — is one of the main reasons people relapse, so understanding it is an important part of recovery. The 28 statements cover the thoughts, feelings and physical sensations that can come with craving, such as tension, irritability, poor sleep, loss of appetite, restlessness and the sense of having no control.
Each statement is rated from “not at all” to “always”. Adding up the answers gives an overall picture of how intense and how disruptive your cravings are at the moment.
Who should take it?
This scale is meant for adults who use drugs, or have used them recently, and who are in treatment or thinking about getting help. It is most useful when discussed with a therapist or addiction specialist, who can compare results over time and use them to plan coping strategies.
How to take it
Think about how things are for you right now. Read each statement and choose how much it applies to you. Be as honest as you can — your answers are for your own benefit and there are no right or wrong responses. It takes about five to ten minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose addiction?
No. It measures the strength of craving, not whether you have a substance use disorder. A diagnosis needs a full assessment by a qualified professional.
The first statement mentions marijuana — what if I use something else?
The original Arabic form names marijuana in the first item only. If you use a different substance, answer it with your own main drug in mind.
Can cravings get better?
Yes. Cravings usually come in waves and tend to weaken with time and support. Therapy can teach practical ways to ride them out and reduce relapse.
Medical review and sources
Rights: Arabic Craving Severity Scale. Used with permission of the rights holder.