From big cities to small-town America, drugs are everywhere. It used to be you could avoid the temptation and, subsequently, the effects if you stayed out of certain circles. These days, your child is just as likely to come across drugs taking a trip to the bathroom during math class as they would be hanging around the “stoners” at school.

True, you can still limit the levels of exposure. In spite of these limitations, every kid will graduate high school knowing someone who has used illegal drugs. If you currently have a loved one using, you know better than anyone how much turmoil drugs can bring. It affects not only the abuser, but also everyone around him.

A good way to fight back is to stay “in the know” about whether your child or loved one is still using. This could be the only way you can feel in control of the situation. Before conducting a home drug test, here are some things you should know for the best results.

Is It Right for the Relationship Between You and Your Loved One?

Forcing your loved one to take a home drug test implies a level of mistrust that could severely damage your relationship without the proper care and approach. Make sure you are direct and honest about the reason for the drug test’s necessity, and approach him with the attitude that you love and care for his wellness.

Are You Aware of the Variables?

Have you done enough research to know the variables? What specific drugs are you testing for? What measures are in place to prevent cheating?

Did you pay attention to detection periods? Doing so allows you to know how often you can test, as well as how long drugs stay in the system.

What will you do if the home drug test comes back with a false positive? False positives are common in drug testing. It does not necessarily mean your loved one is using just because they came up positive. Being unaware of this possibility could lead to more tension and turmoil. Ultimately that can be a roadblock on the path to recovery.

How Will I Know If the Home Drug Test Is Effective?

Unless you have the training, you are not a professional. For this reason, it is always a good idea to seek a professional’s help before administering the test. It is even better to have the test performed by a professional. If you insist on going this route, it is important that you know which drugs each test can check for.

Urine Tests

Cocaine (COC), Marijuana (THC), Opiates (OPI), Methamphetamine (mAMP), Amphetamines (AMP), Phencyclidine (PCP), Benzodiazepines (BZO), Barbiturates (BAR) Methadone (MTD), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA).

Saliva Tests

Cocaine (COC), Marijuana (THC), Opiates/Heroin (OPI), Amphetamine (AMP), Methamphetamine (mAMP), Phencyclidine (PCP), Benzodiazepines (BZO)

Hair Follicle Tests

Cocaine (COC), Marijuana (THC), Opiates (OPI), Methamphetamine (mAMP), Amphetamines (AMP), Opiates (OPI), Phencyclidine (PCP), Ecstasy

Nail Tests

Cocaine (COC), Marijuana (THC), Opiates (OPI), Methamphetamine (mAMP), Amphetamines (AMP), Phencyclidine (PCP)

Aerosol-based spray tests are also available that collect sweat. These test for cocaine/crack use.

Again, consult a professional before jumping to conclusions. Home drug tests are not the final answer, and can often be flawed in their administration. In spite of this, they can be early indicators of growing problems, and can lead to your loved one getting the help they need to overcome addiction.