Going to rehab is a life-changing thing, it can also be terrifying - especially if it's your first time. Going into an unknown place while being so vulnerable, a lot of people have no idea what to bring with them. There are various things to consider before you start packing in order to get everything you need. So here is a useful guide to help you know what to take with you to a rehab center.
Essentials
It all depends on the facility in question, every facility is different and requires different things but there are some items that are deemed essential when going to rehab regardless of what kind, such as a private room rehab center. While you are not allowed to carry your phone, it's still necessary to have a list of numbers of family and loved ones, your address, and essential information about you. You must have a form of identification in order to enter the facility in the first place, so don’t forget to pack it! Prescription medication is also recommended if you are suffering from a chronic illness, allergies or if you are going through therapy - but this needs to be disclosed beforehand and you can only carry prescribed medication.
However, if you live in Arizona and opt for a luxury rehab center in Tucson, they might have these items available as part of the program. Make sure to double-check with the center to know for sure what to bring and what not to bring.
Clothes
This can depend on various things, first - the duration of your stay, second - the current weather conditions. Also, a lot of facilities have a strict policy on what to wear to rehab and what’s actually appropriate, so you must follow the dress code. Comfortable shirts and pants are recommended for everyday wear, it’s best to focus on comfort and practicality when choosing your clothes for rehab. Underwear and pajamas are also a must, and make sure to pack enough socks depending on your stay! It's better to pack more stuff than to run out of clothing pieces!
Hygiene products
First of all, it's important to know that most facilities won't allow any alcohol-based products - which can be found in many self-care products. So it's important to pack accordingly and to choose the right product, everyone has a different self-care routine that requires different things but bringing some soap, body washes, hair and face products, toothbrush and paste is enough. Try packing for at least 30 days worth of product, and add more if needed. Makeup is mostly allowed so you can bring it too if you want. Also if you are a female, bring sanitary products just in case.
Sentimental items
It might be hard to let go of everyday habits and items, you'll have to say goodbye to most of them when going to rehab. While jewelry is not recommended, you can bring your wedding ring or something small for sentimental purposes. Pictures of your family, loved ones, and pets are also welcomed, especially if you are staying for a prolonged period of time. Since you won’t have your phone with you, there won't be much to occupy your free time - books are the best way to entertain yourself in rehab and make the days seem shorter.
Things not to bring
There are some things you should never even think about bridging to rehab, and that includes any kind of alcohol and drugs - only prescription ones are allowed. When it comes to weapons like guns and knives, they are strictly prohibited, alongside smartphones and other gadgets you can use to contact people outside of the rehab. Food and beverages are also a big no-no, don't even try to smuggle it in! While it can be hard to live without these things, you must respect the safety policies of those kinds of facilities, these restrictions are there for a reason!
Ask a loved one for help
Preparing for rehab is a bit stressful, so in order to do it correctly and to ease up the stress, call a family member or a friend to help. You can go over the list of things with them and decide if you are missing some items or not. It’s also more comforting to have someone with you while you are preparing for this big step in your life! This can also distract you, for the time being, so you don’t have to focus on leaving so much, and enjoy some time with your loved one. So don't shy away from asking for help, it’ll be more useful than you’d think!
At the end of the day, it’s important to bring items that are practical and usable in rehab, but also don't forget about sentimental items - those can be of great importance. Most rehabs are pretty equipt with lots of things, but you'll still have to take care of some essential items, make sure you have a list, and check everything while packing, you want to make your time in rehab as comfortable as you can make it!
COMMENTS