- Content Reviewed By:
- Andrew McKenna - JD
- Deputy Director of NCADD Westchester
Updated:06/29/2023
Many rehabs will allow laptops either immediately or after a certain period of time spent in the program. While the addiction treatment process requires an intense level of concentration, self-reflection, and freedom from distraction, there may be some instances in which it’s advantageous to be able to have computer and internet access during care.
Even though you’re supposed to remove yourself from the people, places, and things that trigger cravings, relapse, and addictive behavior, there are times when it may be more convenient or comfortable, and maybe even necessary, to have access to your computer. If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use disorder, but still need to maintain connection, here is some important information about rehabs that allow laptops.
What Kinds of Rehabs Allow Laptops?
Since outpatient rehab programs are largely spent in active treatment, there is little need for you or your loved one to bring your laptop to treatment with you. These programs allow you to go home at the end of each day so you can maintain your career, family obligations, and other lifestyle responsibilities.
Inpatient or residential treatment centers, on the other hand, involve staying at a treatment facility and healing in a distraction-free environment. Completion of treatment at these programs requires maintaining compliance with facility rules, which may or may not permit laptops. the same rules will generally apply to smartphones with internet capabilities, as well.
When Do Rehabs Permit Laptops?
Even rehabs that allow laptops will have different rules for when they can be used during the program. The goal of treatment is to help you focus on your care and different rehab centers will have their own philosophies on the risks and benefits of laptop use during care. Depending upon which rehab center choose, some may allow laptops:
- After you’ve been in the program for a certain period, have shown progress, and maintained compliance
- At any point during your program, as long as you are not in an active treatment session
- On certain days of the week (usually weekends or designated non-treatment days
- For scheduled virtual communication with family or loved ones during family week or weekend
Luxury or executive rehab centers, which are not typically covered by any type of state or private insurance, will often allow clients to use their laptops at any time during their stay, as long as they’re not in active group or individual therapy.
Why Should I Look for Rehabs that Allow Laptops?
While your first priority in treatment should be getting well, which often requires an atmosphere free of outside distraction, there are scenarios where advantageous and even necessary to have your laptop with you, such as:
For Work – Data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that sustained addiction recovery is tied to meaningful and purposeful work-life balance and that employment is an important element for sustaining recovery and maintaining financial independence.
One study published in the Journal of Rehabilitation indicated that clients who are employed while in treatment are significantly more likely to complete treatment than unemployed clients. Additional data indicates that alcohol and other substance use is affecting 49% of American workers. The reality is that work and recovery are inextricably linked. Many people need to feel secure in their jobs and to stay on top of work to alleviate anxiety that can get in the way of positive recovery growth.
Family – Family, and recovery share a complicated relationship. On one hand, family can be a common source of substance abuse; on the other, they often serve as an emotional and practical support system for people who are in recovery. Data from the Pew Research Center indicates that over 46% of American families are directly impacted by substance use disorder. People in treatment often start the process of repairing family relationships that have suffered while they’re still in their program.
It’s also helpful to have the enduring support of family members through consistent contact with them. Laptops allow you or your loved one to stay connected with your family during the highs and lows of your treatment.