Getting tested for alcohol and substance abuse can be a big step. Whether it’s for work, school, court, or medical reasons, it’s normal to feel nervous or unsure about what comes next.
At My Tribe Counseling, we understand how important this moment is. We’re here to help guide you through it with clarity, compassion, and no judgment.
Below, we will explain what usually happens after the test in simple words so you can feel more prepared and less worried.
What Is a Substance Abuse Test?
A substance abuse test checks if alcohol or drugs are in your system. It may be requested for:
- Jobs or school
- Legal or court reasons
- Medical checkups or rehab programs
The goal isn’t to shame you. It’s to protect your health and guide you to the care you may need.
At My Tribe Counseling, we offer substance use and abuse classes, evaluations, and counseling to help individuals understand their results and take positive steps forward.
Different Types of Tests
There are many types of alcohol and drug tests. You might get:
- Urine Test: The most common
- Blood Test: Very accurate but more invasive
- Hair Test: Shows long-term use
- Saliva Test: Best for recent use
We also provide Mental Health Status Evaluations and Bio-Psycho-Social Evaluations to help clients understand the bigger picture of their emotional and physical wellness.
Waiting for Your Test Results
After the test, you’ll have to wait. This might take:
- A few hours (for urine)
- A few days (for blood or hair)
If you’re feeling anxious during this time, you’re not alone. At My Tribe, our trained counselors are always here to support you with individual therapy, group sessions, or parenting classes, depending on what you’re going through.
How Will You Get the Results?
You might receive your results:
- Through a phone call from a doctor or caseworker
- By email with a secure link
- As a printed report for the court or workplace
What the Results Mean
- Negative: No alcohol or drugs found
- Positive: Substances detected
- Inconclusive: The test didn’t work right; may need a retest
If you need help understanding your results, My Tribe’s counselors use a Solution-Focused Brief Therapy approach to help you move forward with clarity and hope.
What Happens If the Test Is Negative?
A negative result indicates that no substances or alcohol were detected in your system.
Here’s what could happen next:
- For a job, you may be cleared to start working.
- For the court, it might help your case.
- For treatment, your doctor may decide on the next steps.
- For personal reasons, you might feel relief and peace of mind.
A negative result usually allows things to move forward smoothly.
What Happens If the Test Is Positive?
A positive test means alcohol or drugs were found. But it’s not the end. It’s a turning point.
- Confirmation Testing
A second test might be done to double-check. This is normal.
- Talking with a Medical Review Officer (MRO)
The MRO may call to ask about:
- Prescription medications
- Your health history
- Your lifestyle
My Tribe therapists are here to help you explore the “why” behind your results in a way that is honest, respectful, and empowering.
What if you’re in a Treatment Program?
In programs like the ones offered at My Tribe, a test result helps your care team adjust your plan. A positive doesn’t mean failure. It just means it’s time for:
- More support
- A therapy check-in
- A change in your recovery path
We offer anger management classes, domestic violence classes, and group therapy options designed to lift you, not tear you down.
Legal or Workplace Consequences
If your test is part of a court order or job requirement, there may be steps you must follow:
- Court: You might have to attend counseling, rehab, or check-ins with a probation officer.
- Workplace: You may be asked to attend a substance abuse program or retake the test later. Some employers have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that offer help. You may get support without losing your job.
At My Tribe, we work with court-ordered mediation, court-ordered visitation, and alcohol & substance abuse evaluations. We advocate for healing, not punishment.
Support after the Test
Whatever the results, support is essential.
At My Tribe Counseling, we offer:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy and life skills classes
- Anger management, parenting, and relationship classes
- Substance abuse evaluations and support resources
We believe in restoring communities and removing barriers to care, no matter your background or ability to pay.
Why These Tests Matter
Alcohol and substance abuse tests are not just about “catching” people. They are also about:
- Protecting your health
- Helping people recover
- Keeping workplaces and communities safe
- Making informed medical decisions
They can be the start of something positive, especially when combined with care and support.
Tips for Moving Forward
Here are a few gentle tips, no matter your test result:
- Be honest with yourself and others.
- Take responsibility and ask for help if needed.
- Focus on your health, mind, and body.
- Develop objectives that can help you out of bad habits.
- Celebrate progress, even if it’s small.
Final Thoughts
Taking an alcohol and substance abuse test can feel scary, but it doesn’t have to define your story. Whether your result is positive, negative, or inconclusive, this is just one page in your book, not the whole chapter.
At My Tribe Counseling, we walk beside you with therapy, counseling, evaluations, and community support. We believe you belong, you matter, and you deserve quality care.
Ready to talk? Call us today at (813) 510-0572
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FAQs
Q: Is it possible to take a drug test again if I mess up?
Yes, especially if you believe it was a mistake. Confirmatory testing is standard.
Q: What happens if I refuse a drug test?
Refusal may be treated as a positive result, especially for court or work.
Q: Will a failed drug test go on my record?
It depends. Legal cases may include results; otherwise, tests are confidential.
Q: How can I challenge a false positive?
Ask for a GC-MS confirmation test and provide medical proof if needed.
Q: Do rehab programs require drug testing?
Yes, most do. It helps track your recovery and accountability.