Devastated and feeling stigmatised

[lady_frazzle]

I had to do a pre employment drug test today for which I declared I take one of the drugs mentioned (prescribed). The result came back showing this drug as expected and I have been told they are now sending this back for further analysis to see if I misuse this drug and if I am telling the truth. I wrote I use as needed (which is correct) and tried to say as little as possible as I feel my anxiety and management is my business. I now feel I am going to be compared to whatever standard they have as “normal” when this medication is subjective based on the person. This has absolutely thrown my anxiety through hoops. I had taken more of this medication than I normally would this week as my young child had to do medical tests which could reveal something serious. I do so much to manage my mental health myself and it doesn’t impact my work (there are many good things from anxiety which make me a better worker), however right now I feel so vulnerable and stigmatised 😢

[white knight]

Hi, mum I just answered your other post but I didn't know you were going to have a drug test....you probably didn't either.

I would assume their test is primarily to ascertain illicit drug use.

Perhaps they are seeking the "perfect human being"?

TonyWK

[lady_frazzle]

Honestly feel really upset. This drug is irrelevant to me performing my role, I work in an office and feel really violated that they know about this when it’s irrelevant. Now I need wait for them to further analyse and determine if my usage is too much. How they can make that call and based on what data as the results are subjective and represent this week only.

[tranzcrybe]

As long as you are honest with your use and its purpose, then you have no cause to worry - you have been upfront which is worthy in itself (but I note you have not revealed all you could). If it does lead to you being overlooked for this position, it is unlikely to be subjective or personally directed. Employers look at safety risks to their business and employees, and the position may require a certain requisite for vigilance or some other factors on which this drug may affect performance (even in an office job).
If you are still feeling anxious, perhaps a letter from your prescribing physician may add weight to your argument. Remember, speaking frankly might even be looked upon as a desirable attribute (particularly the stresses of this week) - it is indisputable and the fact that they are delving deeper, suggests you have not been written off, but rather ascertaining if this will be an impediment in your role.

[lady_frazzle]

I didn’t reveal everything I could to the nurse as she didn’t really ask (ie when you last used it) and basically treated me like an addict by saying they are checking if it’s normal or high. As needed is honest and reflects sometimes it’s not at all, sometimes it’s twice a week and sometimes more (like this week due to other factors).I am happy to have a conversation with my future boss if it’s an issue.

[tranzcrybe]

Yes, it is a horrible feeling to be misrepresented and spoken down to. If you miss out on the position, you might want to request a review so you can express your circumstances in more detail, have another test (or offer for this to be done) as a sign of your sincerity, and to support your claim.

"As needed" is absolutely honest although, as you mentioned, it covers a wide range from 'often' to 'not at all' leaving it open to interpretation. Nurses/doctors like to work with quantifiable responses - "On average, I would say X times a day/week/month, but this week has been exceptional due to...". Easy in hindsight, but tricky when put on the spot and feeling intimidated.

I hope you are successful - you sound keen to secure this position.