Expert: Jacqui - 9/24/2009

Question
I have been in recovery for 2 yrs on Sept 21, and last week my drug ua showed up positive for cocaine. The nurse at the pain management (methadone) clinic I go to said that it could definately be from a Lidoderm 5% patch that I used and they just made a notation in my chart. Now heres the problem: a CPS (child protective srevices) case was opened on my family last week-an altercation had happened between my husband & I and I reported it to a counselor. She called CPS because m y 2 yr old son was there when it happened and instead of just investigating him, they decided to investigate me also because of my past drug history. So they did a hair strand test and now I'm terrified that it will show up for cocaine as well! And of course with my history they will never believe me! What do I do? I could very well lose my child. I was so proud that I made it to 2 yrs bein sober and now this has just devastated me. I'm still 2 yrs sober and proud of it, but I feel these tests should be outlawed until they can be 100% accurate. Are there any groups/resources out there who can help me? Thank you, Susan

Answer
HI Susan,

Personally, I hate drug urine screens.  All they say is that someone has had a substance in their body.  They don't say whether that person actually put anyone at risk!  Using a drug doesn't mean you are a bad parent!  30% of Americans report to using illegal drugs!!!!  They are just the ones that report it (a lot of people probably say 'no' when they are surveyed, when they actually have.  Of course, because of the stigma, there is a lot of reluctance towards being open about drug use)  If you are in the room with 3 child protection workers, chances are at least one has used illegal drugs.  

There are two things here.  Firstly, you need to be honest because lying will get you deeper in the hole.  You need to tell them what has happened.  I dont' know the system with child protection in the US, but I do know that America is addicted to the war on drugs (although this is being questioned a bit lately) and this is horribly judgemental.  The three last presidents used drugs, including two who used cocaine (i.e.: you and Obama have this in common!), and I don't think anyone would be rushing to take their children away.  

Is there a worker who you are particularly close with who could advocate for you?  Also, if you could a copy of your case notes that say that the cocaine was probably just the Lidoderm then that would be ideal.  Also, you can try to counter any negatives with postive reports.  Letters from workers, family members and others who can attest to how well you are doing are always good.

As far as organisations who can provide support, some harm reduction agencies may be able to advocate around this kind of issue.  Can you tell me what city you are in?  I may be able to do a quick internet search to see if there is anything in your area.

Take care and stay safe,

Jacqui