Phone Calls at Rehab

When preparing to enter an addiction treatment program, you may have many questions about what to expect. One of the most asked questions is whether you make or receive phone calls at rehab. For most people, being separated from all communication with the outside world seems daunting. Let’s explore the reasons for rehabs have rules about phone calls.

Will You Have Access to Your Phone in Rehab?

You’ve decided to enroll in a rehab program to break the hold that addiction has over you. Treatment is an intense experience that requires your complete attention so you will gain the tools to be able to sustain sobriety. This is why being totally present while in treatment is so important, and why your cell phone could interfere.

Each treatment center will provide its own rules regarding taking phone calls at rehab. Many rehabs store the client’s phone and other electronic devices for the duration of their stay. Others may have certain times set aside for limited phone use. All rehabs do provide access to a landline phone in some location within the rehab center. 

If a family member calls the rehab to inform a client of an emergency, you will be immediately put in touch with the person. If any issues occur while you are in rehab, you might need to discuss it with a spouse or parent. This can be done on the community landline phone.

3 Reasons Why Rehabs Don’t Allow Cell Phone Use

At first, it may seem unreasonable for the rehab to insist on storing your phone in a private locker. Rest assured that there are good reasons for the rehab to take this precaution. These include:

1. Reduce the risk of relapse. Cell phones provide exposure to people or resources that may possibly cause the client to be triggered. This could result in a relapse, which would undo all the good work done so far with detox and treatment.
2. Enforce boundaries. Treatment centers may want to limit the topics of discussion with people on the outside. Some rehabs don’t allow visitors to discuss the addiction with their friend or loved one during vulnerable points in treatment.
3. Safety for all. Another reason for restriction of cell phone use is simply safety. It prevents a client from contacting a dealer and arranging for drugs to be dropped off at the rehab. This could endanger the other clients in recovery.

Pros and Cons of Taking Phone Calls at Rehab

Let’s consider some of the pros and cons of having access to your phone while in treatment.

Pros: Why it is a good thing to be able to use your phone

• Staying in touch. It might be calming to know you can reach out to loved ones when you are feeling lonely or isolated from them.
• Need support. There may be a certain person, such as a parent or a spouse, that you count on for emotional support.
• Updates about your progress. You want to share with loved ones about your progress in rehab.

Cons: Why it could be harmful to use your phone

• Dysfunctional family dynamics. Your family may be engaging in codependent or enabling behaviors that can disrupt your progress in treatment.
• Distracts from treatment process. Cell phones give us access to anything and everything on the internet. Phones are restricted because they can cause major distractions while you are in treatment.
• Relapse risk. Phones allow you to reach out to someone who can supply drugs during a weak moment. You may suddenly experience cravings, anxiety, or loneliness that tempts you to use.

Alternative Modes of Communication at Rehab

It may be difficult to imagine not having access to your smartphone or tablet while in treatment. The thought of being totally cut off from the world may even provoke feelings of sadness or anxiety. However, it is important to remember that there are other ways to stay in touch with your loved ones:

• Write letters. While going non-digital may seem old school, writing letters to loved ones can be a very positive experience. You can take the time to write thoughtful letters and share your feelings, and the recipient will cherish these letters.
• Invite them to join for family day. Most rehabs include a family component in the treatment program. This may be a family day, where family members are invited to come for a special event. Rehabs also encourage family members to participate in the family therapy sessions they offer, which provides another way to stay connected.
• Make use of limited phone use periods. Some rehabs do offer designated times where you are able to access your phone. This is a great opportunity to reach out to a loved one to say hello and update them on your progress.

Why You Need to Focus on Treatment While in Rehab

Once you enter an addiction treatment program, you will soon realize why you need to be undistracted. The weekly schedules are full, including several group therapy and individual therapy sessions. You’ll also engage in classes where you’ll learn new recovery skills to help you navigate your new sober life. You may also participate in 12-step meetings or be present at gatherings that feature a guest speaker.

Rehab also includes diversions that help to balance out the rigorous treatment schedule. You may engage in yoga, meditation, art therapy, dance movement therapy, or enjoy various outdoor activities. 

All of these treatment elements would be disrupted if you were able to access your smartphone at rehab. Thus, the reason why, in general, phone calls at rehab are the exception and not the norm.

Wellness Retreat Recovery Center Permits Phone Calls at Designated Times

Wellness Retreat Recovery Center provides detox, residential and outpatient addiction treatment services. Our policy regarding phone calls at rehab is to allow clients access during designated times after a waiting period. Our house phone is provided for use during the waiting period. To learn more about our evidence-based treatment program, please connect with us at (877) 454-7158.