Being able to make phone calls in rehab is one of the most common questions people have before entering. It’s natural to want to know if you can maintain connections with family and friends. In this article, we’ll talk about whether you can have a phone in rehab so you’ll know what to expect.
What Is Rehab?
Rehab, short for rehabilitation, is a structured treatment process designed to help individuals recover from addiction, mental health disorders, or other chronic conditions. Rehab programs are often tailored to the individual’s needs and can involve a combination of therapies, including medical, psychological, and holistic approaches, to promote healing, growth, and sustainable change.
What Are the Different Levels of Care in Rehab?
Rehab features different levels meant for the different stages of getting sober. Phone calls in rehab are mostly restricted during the first two stages; the rules become much more relaxed thereafter.
Detox
Detoxification is often the first step in rehab, focusing on safely removing drugs or alcohol from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. This phase helps stabilize the individual physically, preparing them for further treatment.
Residential Treatment
Residential or inpatient treatment provides a controlled and supportive environment where individuals live at the facility for a period of time, usually ranging from 30 to 90 days or longer. It offers intensive therapy, both individual and group, along with various therapeutic activities designed to address addiction on a deeper level.
Because everything is tightly controlled to minimize temptations and distractions, phone calls in rehab during this phase will be restricted, and what calls there are will be monitored.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment offers a flexible and less intensive level of care, allowing individuals to live at home while attending scheduled therapy sessions at the rehab center. This type of treatment is suitable for those who have completed a more intensive level of care or who require continued support while integrating recovery practices into their daily lives.
There are different levels of outpatient care, including partial hospitalization programs (PHP) and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). These programs all require fewer hours of attendance, and given the person is at home much of the time, phone calls in rehab are obviously allowed.
Aftercare
Aftercare is the ongoing support provided after formal treatment has ended. It helps individuals maintain their recovery by providing strategies to cope with triggers, manage cravings, and navigate life challenges that could lead to relapse.
Can I Make Phone Calls in Rehab?
That’s going to depend on the level of care you are in. If you are in inpatient rehab, phone use may be regulated. Many inpatient rehab programs enforce a “blackout period” during the first few days or weeks of treatment to help patients focus on recovery without outside distractions. After that period has ended, you still may not be able to call during certain times of the day or week, and calls you do make may be monitored.
Once you go to outpatient rehab, that changes. In outpatient rehab, since patients live at home, there are typically no restrictions on phone use, although therapists may recommend limiting distractions during treatment sessions.
Why Is It Important to Avoid Distractions in Rehab?
Avoiding distractions in rehab is essential because the primary goal is to focus entirely on recovery, personal growth, and developing healthier habits. Rehab provides an opportunity for deep reflection, helping individuals uncover the root causes of addiction or mental health struggles. Distractions, such as phone calls in rehab or external stressors, can interfere with this introspective process and prevent individuals from fully engaging in therapeutic work. Negative influences from the outside world can be a distraction at a treatment center.
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Call 866-881-1184Other Rules to Know Before Rehab Starts
Before entering rehab, it’s essential to understand the facility’s rules and guidelines to ensure a smooth transition and make the most of the program.
Here are some common rules and considerations to be aware of:
- Personal Belongings: Rehab centers often restrict items like drugs, alcohol, weapons, and certain medications. Personal electronics such as smartphones or laptops may also be limited to reduce distractions.
- Privacy and Confidentiality: While your privacy is protected by law, you are also expected to respect the confidentiality of other participants and avoid sharing their details outside the program.
- Attendance and Participation: Attending all scheduled therapy sessions, group meetings, and activities is mandatory. Skipping sessions or refusing to engage may lead to consequences.
- Abstinence: Rehab facilities enforce a zero-tolerance policy for substance use. Bringing in or using drugs, alcohol, or unauthorized medications may result in dismissal from the program.
- Medications: Prescribed medications must usually be approved by the facility, and medical staff will typically handle and administer them to prevent misuse.
- Visitation Rules: Visitors are allowed only during specific times and often require prior approval. Some programs restrict visitation during the initial stages of treatment to help you focus.
- Relationships and Boundaries: Romantic or sexual relationships with other patients are generally prohibited. Maintaining personal boundaries is essential for a safe and supportive environment.
- Chores and Responsibilities: In residential programs, patients may be assigned small chores to contribute to the community and establish routines. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to disciplinary action.
- Communication Limitations: Many facilities place restrictions on phone use, internet access, or outside communication, especially early in treatment, to help reduce distractions.
- Financial Considerations: Understand program costs, insurance coverage, and payment plans before starting. Some facilities may require upfront payments for uncovered services.
- Commitment to Recovery: You are expected to stay for the full duration of the program. Leaving early can hinder progress and may forfeit financial investments.
By familiarizing yourself with these rules, you’ll be better prepared to succeed in your rehab program and focus entirely on your recovery.
Looking for quality substance abuse treatment that’s also affordable? South Coast accepts most major insurance providers. Get a free insurance benefits check now.
Check Your CoverageWhat Happens During Drug and Alcohol Rehab?
Drug and alcohol rehab is a structured process that begins with a comprehensive medical assessment. Once that’s done, a treatment plan is created, and you will pass through the various stages of care outlined above.
Psychotherapy for Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Psychotherapy is a cornerstone of addiction treatment, helping individuals understand and change behaviors linked to substance use.
Some common ones include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to addiction.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): Helps manage intense emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): Encourages individuals to recognize their addiction, build motivation, and commit to recovery.
- Trauma-Focused Therapy: Addresses unresolved trauma that may be contributing to substance use.
- Family Therapy: Involves family members to repair relationships, improve communication, and create a supportive home environment.
Holistic Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Holistic treatment focuses on healing the mind, body, and spirit, complementing traditional therapies.
Examples include:
- Yoga and Meditation: Improve mindfulness, reduce stress, and promote emotional regulation.
- Nutritional Therapy: Focuses on restoring physical health through balanced diets and addressing nutrient deficiencies caused by substance abuse.
- Art or Music Therapy: Encourages self-expression and emotional healing through creative outlets.
- Exercise and Fitness: Enhances physical health, boosts mood, and reduces cravings through endorphin release.
- Acupuncture and Massage Therapy: Relieves stress, promotes relaxation and may help manage withdrawal symptoms.
Holistic treatments are often integrated into rehab programs to provide a well-rounded approach to recovery and improve overall well-being.
Find Rehab Near Me
If you or someone you care about is wondering about whether they can make phone calls in alcohol and drug rehab, you can certainly reach out to us. Our treatment programs for alcohol and drug addictions can help you get sober. We also help with mental health treatment along with substance use disorders, a process known as dual diagnosis.
Start Today
If you or a loved one are struggling with drugs and alcohol but wonder how long rehab takes or have other questions, call us at 866-881-1184 or contact us here. Our highly qualified staff will be happy to help give you an idea of what to expect from your addiction recovery timeline, verify your insurance, and assist with any other questions you may have.
