During the recovery process, a drug relapse isn’t a failure. It doesn’t mean that rehab didn’t work or that your loved one has a hopeless case of addiction. It does mean that the current treatment program might not be providing the person with the tools they need to avoid future temptations. A relapse, in other words, provides feedback healthcare experts can use to change their treatment plans and provide even more effective help in the future.
Random drug testing is often used while the patient is in treatment, this ensures the person is not breaking the rules of the rehab center. After treatment, the same level of screening may not be provided, unless their families begin following a drug testing schedule. A list of pros and cons of random drug testing a family member are as follows:
Realizing The Need
Reports suggest that people who are closely monitored by their family members are less likely to start using drugs in the first place. Some studies believe that children who experienced a lack of supervision at an early age, are more inclined to use drugs earlier.
With that being said, it is easy to believe that people wouldn’t engage in drug activity when they are watched, as they feel they might get in trouble. The same could be said of a family member new to recovery. Your loved one believes the family has invested in his or her recovery and hopes they will never use again. If the family is always monitoring, the person might be too afraid of the consequences, and not relapse at all.
It would be ideal if the recovering addict could have an open and honest dialogue with their families, allowing them to discuss their cravings and concerns about relapse. Some families can build these relationships through therapy, where the loved one is able to clearly express their needs, trusting their family will help them. Unfortunately, some addicted people feel the need to use is stronger than the need, to be honest. Random drug testing can force people to be honest, and that means that people will have better shot at remaining sober.
Urine Testing
Urine testing seems to be the most popular because they’re easy to administer and immediate results. Unfortunately, these tests can be easily altered. An entire online industry is devoted to urine testing for drug addiction, allowing a person to alter their urine sample so they can pass a test. Tests that have been modified could give the family a false sense of security about their family members addiction.
On the other end, a loved one could fail a drug screening due to vitamin supplements. The family member might not even know the supplements contain drugs, resulting in a false-positive. Families who receive a failed drug screening could believe that a relapse has taken place when it has not. All the time and energy focused on building a bond of trust between the addicted person and the family could be broken.
Other Options
Drug testing kits can also be used to check hair. This type of test cannot be altered and allows the families to check for drugs up to 90 days in the past.
Due to the fact that this test can be done discreetly, without the person knowledge, trust can be broken.
Saliva testing is another good option. These tests are more difficult to modify, and they provide an almost immediate result. The person knows the test is being taken, and the family will soon know if relapse has occurred.
Making A Plan
A counselor might be an ideal person to assist you with the development of the family plan .Once the family has agreed on a plan, agreeing on consequences if relapse has occurred, the family must adhere to those plans, no matter what. A loved one living in a household where the drug testing seems fair might be more inclined to participate without the feelings of hostility.
At Asana Recovery, we provide a comprehensive treatment program to people with substance abuse issues. Each program is designed to the particular needs of each client so they can receive the help they need and deserve. Ask your company to contact us today at 949-438-4504.