Why Drug Testing Students is Important
Why Drug Testing Students is Important
Parents, Teachers, and School Officials are terrified by the growing number of drug overdose deaths that plague the community. It seems every day, we hear about another opioid death. These are our neighbors, friends, and children and the reality of this epidemic is heartbreaking. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, deaths from drug usage have more than doubled since 2000. In fact, there is more illness, deaths, and disabilities from drug abuse than from any other preventable health condition (drugabuse.gov).
What can schools do to combat this epidemic and potentially save lives?
Drug testing is an important tool. Testing students can:
- Discourage usage. When students know they will be tested, they may choose not to use.
- Identify usage. Early detection can ensure the student is connected with the help they need.
Adolescence is the age of fearlessness. It is a natural phenomenon of the developing mind and it minimizes the reality of drugs. People are most likely to start using drugs, which could lead to overdose, during adolescence (drugabuse.gov). There are some signs to look out for, such as, failing grades, changes in behavior or friends, and even that gut instinct that something is wrong. However, some students are better at hiding.
The only way to know, is to test.
Drug testing is a simple, accurate early intervention. Great Lakes Labs is committed to providing parents and schools the most valid and unbiased drug screening. We can detect drug abuse in biological fluids, tissue, and hair. There are a variety of testing options available. Please visit gl-labs.com/services/drugscreening/ for more information and call (219) 464-8885 for more information