First off, kudos on beginning the search for the right addiction treatment program. This means you have accepted that there indeed is a problem within yourself that needs attention or you’re looking out for a friend or family member in need. Both reasons should be recognized.

Addiction is a serious disease that can turn deadly if not given the right treatment at the right time. Of course, there is no one size fits all situation when it comes to such programs so let’s explore some options that could fit your needs.

Is My Phone Off Limits?

Just like how every person’s needs are different, so too is each treatment facility unique in its allowances. Many people are attached at the hip to their smartphones and other electronic devices and as a result, any kind of lengthy separation is a turnoff.

The medical staff at some rehab centers will sympathize with your plight and allow you access to your mobile device at certain hours. Others will tell you on no uncertain terms is this permitted. So to answer the question, Can you have a cell phone in rehab, it depends.

What is sure though is that regardless if a center gives you the go-ahead to use your phone, it will not be permitted in group sessions or detox. The privacy of every person there is important and HIPPA regulations are to be respected. If finding a program with less strict rules about cell phone use is important to you, book a consultation for further clarification.

How Much Guidance Do You Need?

Residential therapy offers treatment programs where you’re expected to live for a long period of time. Normally, at least a month. The therapy is geared toward persons who intensely suffer from addiction issues. If you’ve tried multiple times and failed repeatedly at quitting, this is your best bet. Here the medical professionals are able to spend more time with you, working with you in groups and personally to make breakthroughs leading to your triumph.

Spending some time away from your normal environment and triggers could be the remedy to your addiction. Not only will you get a reprieve from the many distractions of life, but you will also have a support system around you from withdrawal to total detoxification.

Is Your Home Support System Strong?

The outpatient treatment option is the opposite of the residential therapy programs. In this instance, you will still be enrolled in a treatment program, receiving your sessions as outlined by the facility, which could be once a day or various times during the day. At the end of these sessions, you are free to return home. This setup is best for those who have a reliable and strong support system for their friends and family. It also fits for persons who have home and or work commitments that they just cannot shirk.

For this type of treatment to be successful, you need to be even more committed to the process. There won’t be medical staff physically monitoring you to ensure you stay on course. If for any reason you realize that this choice is not working for you, contact the facility immediately to revise the therapy.

Join A Support Group

Consider how a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous, or even Gambling Anonymous. Touching base with others outside of the group of people you live with could bring a refreshing take on topics you’ve all discussed together. Your circle of support grows bigger and incentives are placed before you to keep on the journey.

There is no judgment, but also no obligation. You remain free to join, continue or leave. Of course, you would be encouraged against the latter since a solo mission against addiction is generally not the way to go.

When you’re selecting a treatment program, really ask yourself how severe your addiction is so you can make the correct choice between an inpatient or residential program and outpatient treatment. Remember that after your treatment, you won’t be thrown back into your regular environment and forgotten. No, there exists the opportunity for sober living and support groups if you so desire.

If having access to your cell phone is imperative for keeping tabs on home life, or maintaining a connection with work, look carefully at the options before saying yes to any. Whichever you end up choosing, do your best to be committed to the process. If you are not one hundred percent invested in your own wellbeing, this will not work no matter what therapy program you enter. You have to be truly ready to make a lifelong change.