If your family is dealing with drug abuse, you probably feel very confused. You have a lot of questions about what is going on and what you need to do to handle the fact that your loved one is addicted to a destructive chemical substance. If you have chosen to get your family member rehab, however, you’re on the right track to getting a handle on the situation.
Checking into a residential rehab facility is the best option for overcoming drug addiction. No other approach really comes close to the 24-hour a day supervision and oversight that is available at a residential facility. Going to one of these rehabs can lead to its own set of questions, however. You’re going to be away from home for a little while, so how do you prepare. Should you pack like you’re going to a hotel or resort? Are there any restrictions on what you can bring?
What to Bring to a Drug Rehab
It’s vital to know what you should and should not take to drug rehab in order to ensure your stay goes well.
1. Toiletries
When it’s time to start packing for your stay at rehab, make sure that you bring all of your own favorite toiletries such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, etc. The rehab center will probably have a small store to re-stock these items, but there is no guarantee they will have the exact brand you use.
2. A phone card and writing supplies
Cell phones are usually discouraged at rehab centers as they can provide major distractions to clients. That doesn’t mean that you can’t contact your family, however. In fact, it’s encouraged that you talk to the loved ones that are supporting you in your journey to sober living. Bring a phone card and writing supplies with you to the center, instead. That way you can call from the center’s landline phones and write letters to your family.
3. Workout clothing and comfortable outfits
One of the most important part of rehab is detoxifying your body, and a major part of doing so is accomplished with exercise. Bring workout clothes and running shoes so that you’ll be able to get your blood pumping when you arrive. You should also bring comfortable clothes for the rest of your stay.
4. Spending money
Bring some cash with you to rehab. You may want to purchase snacks during your stay or replace toiletries that have run out. Many centers will also take “field trips” into the closest town, so spending money is necessary to pay for bowling or a trip to the movies.
5. A positive attitude
The most important thing to bring to rehab isn’t a physical possession – rather, it’s your attitude. When you show up at the rehab facility, you need to be ready to make some major changes in your life. You need to have the attitude that you’re ready to get off of drugs forever. Throw yourself into the process and work as hard as you can to put drug use behind you. If you give the process time and energy it needs to work, you will find that you have much better results.
What Not to Bring to Addiction Treatment
There are several items that you definitely don’t want to take to rehab. Drugs and alcohol will be strictly forbidden, of course. You should also leave expensive electronics and credit cards at home. There is no point in tempting others with items that could be stolen (after all, not everyone that arrives at rehab is immediately ready to start living a moral lifestyle.) Weapons of any kind are also banned.
If you follow these simple suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to having a great experience getting sober in rehab.