The goal of a drug rehabilitation program is to focus on recovery. Distractions are minimized as much as possible in order to help members of the program concentrate on their objective of getting clean and sober. This is best done by simplifying your needs so that your energy can be directed into the healing process. The following are a few suggestions about how to prepare for a stay at a drug rehab center, and what to bring.
Know the Rehab Center Policies
Before checking in, it’s best to know the policies of the facility. When a person is admitted, the intake counselor provides a list of belongings that should be brought in, along with items that are not allowed. The following are some of the most common items that are not allowed.
- Drugs and alcohol of any kind
- Clothing that promotes drug or alcohol use
- Sexually provocative clothing
- Pornography
- Cigarettes and cigarette lighters
- Guns, knives or other weapons
- Credit cards or large sums of cash
- Personal care products that contain alcohol, such as cologne or mouthwash
- Cameras or tape recorders
Some facilities will allow you to bring personal electronic equipment, such as laptops and cell phones, as well as devices for playing music. Some also allow personal bedding, as well as favorite foods or nutritional supplements. Other rehab centers can be much more restrictive. Many people have the option to choose their rehab center, so if a certain facility doesn’t meet your tastes, talk with your intake counselor or shop around for a rehab center that’s a better fit.
Assess Your Needs
So what do you need to bring to rehab? It’s best to pack only items that will support, and not distract from, your recovery. Unnecessary or extraneous items, though they may be permitted, won’t help you with your healing. Here is a list of the items that are mandatory at most rehab centers.
- One or more forms of ID
- Your insurance information, if applicable
- Comfortable, modest clothing
- Needed prescription medications
- A form of payment for rehab medications
Optional items may include personal care products (alcohol-free), cosmetics, a watch, medications, and small amounts of money. Many facilities will have small shops where you can purchase basic necessities.
Trying to stay organized and focused can be challenging for people in recovery. You may feel restless and distracted when you first enter the program. Simple items like an alarm clock or a personal planner can be helpful items to stay on track. Facilities provide a daily schedule of meets, sessions, and activities, but sometimes you need a reminder on hand to help you meet your appointments.
Your New Life
Rehabilitation isn’t about what you bring in, but what you take home. To get the most out of the program, only bring essential items that can contribute to your success. Items that remind you of substance abuse should be left behind. Think about getting rid of the things that can make you feel depressed or angry about your life.
Simplifying your needs is the best way to focus on getting better. Bringing only what you need to get better will concentrate your attention on what you need to focus on your recovery, instead of being distracted by silly or destructive objects. Deciding to enter rehab is the first choice to get better. Bringing the right supplies is simply a continuation of that choice and your ultimate goal of becoming clean and sober.
