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Originally Posted by LauraBeth
Today I went to my first appointment with a new psych (medication management). I had an hour-long intake, part of which involved her asking me about any smoking, drinking alcohol, or substance/drug use. I told her I have no history of any substance use, which is true. I don't even drink wine or beer because I don't like alcohol.
The last thing the psych said, at the very end of the intake, was that I would be taking a urinalysis (tox screen). I agreed to it, but I felt odd...I mean, if they don't trust me why should I trust them? I've never had a pdoc drug screen me before. I'm wondering what others' experiences are with this?
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many mental health agencies and states in the USA are requiring drug testing. its not a situation of not trusting clients.
many states have or are legalizing medical and recreational marijuana use. many psychotropic drugs (in other words antidepressants\anti anxiety\anti psychotics ...) cause problems for some people.
the result of these new legalizing laws is that some mental health agencies are now required by law to administer drug testing as a precaution and in order to keep their certifications as a mental health agency.
think of it like going to a medical doctor, no matter why you go in to see the doctor there are some things that the medical doctor has to do every time you go in.
thanks to legalizing marijuana more and more mental health agencies are required by state law to do a drug test as a preventative care\ basic care situation.
some medications also require periodical blood or urine testing, to keep the dosage levels on track. not over dosing nor under dosing.
my suggestion talk with your treatment provider, they will be able to explain why they drug tested you even though you answered no to the basic questions concerning drugs.