Addiction is a terrifying and devastating disease that affects the thoughts and behaviors of people affected by it. If you are someone who struggles with addiction, it’s likely you have broken the rules at work, home, or school at one point or another to continue your substance abuse. Many addicts and alcoholics feel as though rebellion is almost second nature, but a large part of recovery is about self-discipline.
Inpatient rehab centers in West Palm Beach have a strict list of rules patients must follow. These rules are intended to help keep you and your peers safe during treatment while ensuring a sober and healthy environment.
When you make the choice to go to rehab, nobody has forced you against your will to get help. You have made this decision on your own, so you are expected to accept and abide by the rules set forth by your drug rehab center. Here is a list of rules you’ll have to follow during inpatient drug rehab.
1. No Cell Phones, Computers, and Other Electronic Devices
Most residential treatment programs in West Palm Beach do not allow patients to have their cell phones and computers. This is so you can’t contact people who may bring you substances or pose a negative influence on your sobriety. Cameras are also forbidden for privacy reasons. Other people in rehab may not want their photos taken or for their information to end up on the internet. Another reason phones and electronics are prohibited is to eliminate distractions and allow you to start fresh.
In some cases, music playing devices or portable radios are allowed during certain times. If you do need to use the phone, you are able to during scheduled hours while under supervision. However, you are allowed to write letters to your friends and family to keep in touch during your time in rehab. You may also have access to a community TV that you are allowed to watch during certain hours.
2. You Cannot Leave The Rehab Center Without Permission
Inpatient rehab centers in West Palm Beach often have a comfortable, homey setting, but that doesn’t mean they offer the same level of freedom. If you enroll in inpatient drug rehab, one of the rules you’ll have to follow is staying on the premises at all times. You are not allowed to leave after your therapy sessions. Instead, you live at the treatment facility’s housing.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. These include:
- Leaving with the rest of the treatment center to attend a 12-Step meeting in the community
- Participating in volunteer activities with the rehab center
- Going out on supervised or unsupervised (but approved) outings with friends or family members
Before you are permitted to leave the rehab facility, you must get permission from your primary therapist. This rule is in place to prevent you from being exposed to unnecessary triggers, people, places, or things that could hurt your recovery.
3. No Unapproved Visitors During Treatment
All reputable rehab centers encourage family involvement in the treatment and recovery process. Many even invite family members to come for family therapy sessions or simply to provide support. However, all visitors, including family members, must be approved by your therapist prior to their arrival.
For the first week or two, you may have a blackout period where you are not allowed visitors or phone calls of any kind (unless in the event of an emergency). This blackout period is meant to help you adjust to the treatment setting without the temptations of returning home. And, depending on the COVID-19 protocols in your area, the number and frequency of visitors may vary.
In general, you can have visitors as long as they are pre-approved. You are not allowed to have anyone visit you who is not approved and you should not try to sneak around to see someone who your therapist does not think you should see.
4. Therapy Sessions are Not Optional
Unless you are court-ordered to treatment, you walked into the program’s doors at your own free will. Nobody is forcing you to stay in rehab, however, if you don’t attend your scheduled therapy sessions, you are taking up space and resources that could be dedicated to someone else who wants to get sober. As a result, therapy sessions are not optional.
Mandatory therapy sessions are not meant to torture you. They are there to help you make the most out of your addiction treatment experience. Even if you don’t want to go or don’t want to speak, try to open your ears, listen, and learn from the topics being discussed during therapy. The willingness and motivation to participate will come in time.
5. No Drugs, Alcohol, Weapons, or Violence
This rule probably goes without saying, but drugs, alcohol, weapons, and violence are all prohibited during inpatient rehab. Residential rehab centers aim to provide a safe, secure, and supportive environment that is conducive to healing. Bringing any of these into a rehab facility can threaten the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
When you first arrive at a West Palm Beach drug rehab center, a staff member will search through your luggage and personal items. He or she may confiscate anything that is against the rules.
6. Romantic Relationships are Highly Discouraged
Unless you are attending a couple’s rehab, new romantic relationships are highly discouraged. If you are already in a long-term relationship, engaged, or married, however, your current relationship will be respected. Your significant other may even be invited to participate in therapy with you.
New romantic relationships, on the other hand, can pose a threat to your sobriety. It can distract you from what really matters–you and your healing process. Your focus during rehab should be on your therapy and whatever situation is right in front of you; not a new love interest. Rules regarding romantic relationships are in place to ensure your success in inpatient drug rehab.
7. You’re Expected to Follow the Daily Schedule
Another rule you are expected to follow during inpatient drug rehab is to be compliant with the daily schedule. Residential treatment centers follow a highly structured schedule to introduce routine and healthy habits into your life.
Your schedule may include waking up at a reasonable hour, taking your medications, going to a therapy session, meeting with your therapist or doctor, attending an evening meeting, and going to sleep at the same time every night. Having a regular schedule will help hold you accountable for your responsibilities and your recovery. It will also allow you to get the most out of your time in rehab.
Find a Drug Rehab in West Palm Beach Today
Sometimes, mistakes happen and rules get broken. As long as you don’t threaten the safety of someone else in the community and show a willingness to change, mistakes can be forgiven. With that being said, it’s important to do your best to follow the rules and not abuse the generosity of a drug rehab facility that is trying to help you. Remember, the rules set up during drug rehab are there for a reason, and there’s no reason you can’t adapt.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and ready to get the support you need, we’re here to help. Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.
