As you are considering rehab, there may be questions on what could be allowed and what’s prohibited. One of the questions may be: can I use a cell phone?
Yes, our phones are essential to everyday life especially in today’s technologically driven world. However, if you are in treatment, there may be situations where usage is permitted and certain periods where you shouldn’t use them.
Not all treatment centers are the same in many ways. Some may permit cell phone use (with some caveats) while others might not.
The importance of family, work, school, and friendships is acknowledged and noted, thus implying the need for using your phone regularly. However, there are times when responsibility and recovery must be front and center.
What Reasons Could Rehabs Restrict Phone Usage?
Treatment centers may allow phone access, but with caveats. There are limitations of when they can be used along with the following reasons why:
- It can get distracting and make it easier for you to lose focus due to the constant calls, notifications, messages, and so on. You need your full investment of focus and energy on the treatment including the therapy, reflection, and emotional work aspect of it all. In the early days of treatment, full attention is needed.
- Reducing triggers that may jeopardize your treatment is also a key task. Connecting yourself into environments or relationships that may have fueled substance abuse can be risky. Therefore, access restrictions in place can help.
- Protecting your privacy is also key. Not to mention, restrictions are done as a safety precaution as well to ensure that the confidentiality of others is not breached.
What Are Some Examples of Phone Policies In Rehab?
If a rehab center allows for cell phone usage, the policies in place should determine when they should be used (and when they are prohibited). For example, here are some common policies that are put in place:
- During the first few days or early detox period, phones are to be surrendered or held in a secure locker. Access may be minimal to none. Thus, you may need to notify family and even your employer or educators in advance about your treatment before communication ceases for the necessary time period
- During the residential or inpatient period (after stabilization), phone times can be scheduled to limited times and days. Supervision or monitored use is more than likely.
- Therapeutic settings prohibit phone usage to ensure that you are fully present during therapy sessions, group work, and even communal activities.
- Exceptions may apply such as work or academic related responsibilities that are urgent. Some agreements may be done in advance to ensure that you get special access under certain terms and conditions.
The Best Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Rehab Program
If you are considering a rehab center to begin treatment, you may want to ask certain questions about cell phones or device policies. The questions that are worth asking include:
- What is the policy for the first few days?
- Is there a blackout period that exists?
- When and how can phones be used after the initial phases?
- What are the designated days and times for device usage?
- Will I be supervised and monitored?
- Can an individualized plan be created based on my study, work, or family obligations?
- What are the rules that apply to social media, internet use, photos and videos, etc.?
These are a sample list of questions you can ask staff members before choosing a rehab center.
Stay Connected With Your Healing Process At Capo Canyon
While phone usage is allowed with policies in place, your healing process is still a priority. At Capo Canyon, we will make sure that you have the right arrangements in place for phone usage as you are in recovery.
You can connect with family, focus on work or academic obligations, or anything that is applicable in accordance to the policy. For more information on how we can assist you, call us today at 866-460-5179.
