Second-Hand Highs: Do They Exist?

Maybe it happened when you got a whiff of marijuana while walking past a college dorm room or along the shores of Venice Beach.  Or perhaps the thought first crossed your mind while at a rock concert or other public event.  But at some point, many of us have noticed the infamous smell of cannabis and wondered, “Am I getting a free high out of this?” So the question remains: are second-hand highs real and should they be avoided?

What is a second-hand high? Does it really exist?

As the name suggests, this phenomenon occurs when someone experiences mild to moderate effects of a substance indirectly – that is, through someone else’s use.  And yes, secondhand highs are indeed possible although often difficult to achieve unless you are in a space with extremely concentrated smoke.

What drugs can I get a second-hand high from?

In the marijuana-use community, the term “hotbox” refers to a vehicle or other small, enclosed space to recycle the marijuana-filled air and “optimize” the euphoric effects of the substance. Second-hand smoke from other substances can also have effects on those who breathe it in.  Although not a “high,” the negative effects of secondhand cigarette smoke have been well documented and have led to much legislation that has banned smoking in numerous public places.  Studies have found that children who live in homes with parents who smoke have varying (often high) levels of nicotine in their systems depending on their age, the number of hours they spend at home, and other variables.  Some news reports have also identified children who have become ill and tested positive for crack cocaine after being in the presence of someone who was smoking it.

Might I test positive on a drug test for work or school if I inhaled a substance that someone else was smoking?

Unless you were in the “hotbox” type situation described above, it is highly unlikely that you would test positive on a drug screen although, technically, it is possible.  One option would be to order a related home screening kit and see if you test positive at home before undergoing a test elsewhere (Read Home Drug Testing Kits: Should You Try Them? and Drug Tests: How to Avoid False Positives).  If you do test positive for a substance that you know you have not intentionally ingested, you should request a blood test to confirm the actual level; if you fall below the legal maximum level (and you should if you have not directly administered it), you should not have a problem (Drug Testing in the Workplace: What Are Your Rights?).

How can I help someone who is abusing or addicted to illegal substances?

Call eDrugRehab today and one of our addiction and intervention specialists can help you evaluate the situation and choose the next best step.  Whether you first need to convince the addict that they need help (Read Intervention: Is It Time?) or would like assistance finding a rehab (Read What Happens at Rehab?, The Cost of Rehab: Is It Worth It?, Why Rehab?, and Rehab: Stay Local or Go Out-of-State?), we are here to help!