Going back to work after addiction treatment often means taking on a new job. You’re sober, and you’re ready to start over. But could you still fail a drug test? Or, what if you’ve slipped or relapsed, and a drug test will jeopardize your job? 

Let’s take a closer look at what failing a drug test in addiction recovery means and what steps you can take to make sure that doesn’t happen. If you are facing the risk of relapse right now – even thoughts of using a substance again – do not wait to contact Victory Addiction Recovery Center for immediate help. We are available 24 hours a day to provide you with support.

How Long Do Drugs Stay in Your System?

If you’ve worked through addiction treatment, you’ve likely been sober for some time. That’s an amazing accomplishment! Most substances will not show up in a blood test or urine test beyond a few days after taking them. Here are a few considerations:

For a urine test:

• Alcohol is typically no longer present in urine within 12 hours
• Meth and benzos can last for up to 5 to 7 days
• Marijuana remains evident for as long as 30 days
• Opioids become no longer detectable after about 5 days
• Heroin stays in the system for about 3 days

For a blood test:

Blood tests are not very common in terms of job applications and hiring. However, if for any reason you need to have a blood test, most substances will no longer be present within 12 hours to 2 days.

For a hair follicle test:

Hair follicle tests can show the presence of substances used as long as 90 days ago. This includes alcohol, illicit drugs, and some prescription medications.

Should You Take a Drug Test for Employment When You Are in Recovery?

If you apply for a job and must take and pass a drug test, and you have not used substances since your addiction treatment, you should not fail the test. Most employment drug testing uses the urine test, which will no longer show substances after a week to 30 days (see list above). 

Yet, if you have used substances since leaving addiction recovery, you may need to be cautious about the timing of when you apply for a job. You’ll also, of course, need to consider returning to treatment to get back on track. Our outpatient team can provide you with ongoing support that will allow you to live and work in your home community. 

Did You Fail a Drug Test After You Got the Job?

Another situation that could occur is a random drug screening, which some employers use to ensure their employees are not liability risks. If you are using substances and fail that test, you may need to make some decisions.

If you qualify for Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protection, you may be able to request time off from your employer so you can seek out care at a drug treatment center. The FMLA will protect your position while you get help, and it also keeps your health insurance in place during that period. However, your employer and your employment history must qualify. Speak to the HR team to determine if your situation applies.

What to Do When You’re Still Struggling with Addiction

Many people need more help than a few weeks in drug and alcohol treatment. Relapse from dependency and addiction is very common – along the same risk lines as many other conditions, including cancer and heart disease. For that reason, recognize that relapse is a real component of this recovery process and nothing to be afraid to tackle.

We can help you. At Victory Addiction Recovery Center, we offer comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment in Lafayette, LA. Let us work with you to help you recover fully so you never have to worry about failing a drug test.