While many of the same pressures exist on teens as ever, there’s an ever-widening range of often dangerous drugs available. Given that prevalence and range, it’s a tempting prospect to drug test your teen to see what they’ve been using. We’ll be taking a look at some of the home drug test options available on the market. 

Every parent wants to trust their teenager, but some teens might hide evidence of drug abuse. They could fear disappointing or upsetting their parents, or be trying to avoid punishment. Even worse, they could be using drugs to cover up other untold trauma or issues they’re also trying to conceal. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of whether drug testing your teen is something you should be considering.

Some Reasons to Consider An At Home Drug Test

There is a wide range of at home drug tests available on the market. Some of these specialize in testing for single substances, others for multiple substances. Common substances tested include nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, opioids, and methamphetamine, but these will vary by test. 

When purchasing an at home drug test, the adage “let the buyer beware” applies as much as ever. Especially beware of any product that makes promises that might seem too good to be true (like 100% accurate results). When purchasing an at home drug test, make sure to read all instructions and follow them accurately.

There are several reasons why people might consider an at home drug test. These might include the convenience of performing the test at home, quick access to the results, and non-invasive collection methods. These reasons might make a home drug test an option worth considering when looking to drug test your teen.

Drug Test Kits: Pros and Cons

Drug test kits are available commercially in many major drug stores and department stores, as well as online. Most of them cost somewhere between ten and thirty dollars. While many of these tests are accurate, there are many more possibilities for human error outside of a laboratory setting. There are possibilities for false positives or inconclusive or contaminated results. A positive on a home drug test is not guaranteed confirmation but may warrant further investigation. This is assuming there is an ongoing dialogue about drug use and abuse in the household. Ordering a home drug test kit should not be the first recourse for suspected drug use.

Performing an at home drug test is the most efficient result to find out whether your teenager is abusing drugs. However, it should not be the first option taken. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against drug tests for minors, citing a lack of evidence in reducing teen drug use. It also has a risk of damaging the relationship between the parents and the teenager. Demanding a drug test, especially before any conversation about it, could make a teenager question your trust in them. This kind of measure should only be used as a last resort after other options have been exhausted. 

Start by opening a dialogue with your teenager about the perils of drug abuse. Reinforce how much you love them and want to take care of them, citing the behavior that made you concerned. Only if this attempt to reach out is ignored should you consider asking for a test.

If drug testing your teen is something you’re considering doing, ensure accurate results with a professional drug screening service. Soteria Drug Screening has over 10,000 facilities nationwide offering drug tests for a range of substances. We offer drug screenings for a range of substances including amphetamines, opioids, alcohol, and marijuana. Whether it’s employers screening employees for drug use or a concerned parent looking for answers, Soteria’s here to help. If you’re interested in performing a drug screening, contact us today for more information.