Drug Testing: A Tool, Not a Trick Drug testing can be a valuable tool to help those affected by alcohol or other drugs. The results of a drug test help everyone know where things stand (regardless of whether the results are positive or negative) and help support ongoing efforts for sustaining abstinence from alcohol or other drugs.Drug testing helps those who ARE clean to have proof of their efforts. It is not uncommon for those who are successfully abstaining from alcohol or other drug use to continue demonstrating negative behaviors that remind others of their "using days." Although there are many behavioral changes needed for successful recovery, most friends, family and employers are better able to tolerate such behaviors if they believe that the person is successfully abstaining from substances. A drug test that is negative for all substances can help everyone feel more comfortable and confident that the recovery process is ongoing. Drug testing helps those who have "slipped" to be honest. A "slip" back into using substances is not uncommon, especially in the first few months and years of recovery. The slip itself is not as important as the reaction to it. For those who are able to be honest about their use and recommit to abstinence, the likelihood of progressing in recovery is much greater. Admitting a slip to ones’ self or others can be very difficult. A positive drug test can provide the encouragement for honesty and redirection away from the road to full relapse and back on the road to sustainable recovery. Drug testing can offer an incentive to abstain from alcohol and other drug use. The realization that random drug testing may occur can help those struggling to stay clean have one more reason to do so. For those times when old using friends encourage a return to use, the person can say, "Sorry, but I could get drug tested any day. Better not." For those times when the idea of using begins to creep back into one's thoughts, the person can say to themselves, "If I do use, I'd probably end up with a positive drug test. Better not." The mere possibility of having a drug test can provide the external motivation and incentive to stay abstinent, even when the internal motivation to stay abstinent isn't as strong. Although it is preferred that those seeking drug testing services be receiving other Full Life Counsing, this is not a requirement. Appointments are required along with a 15 minute consultation. | |
