Deciding to go to rehab and get help for substance use disorders is one of the best decisions you have ever made. You will soon be going through the recovery stage, which will set you on a path to lifelong sobriety. In addition to all of the other worries you have, you probably wonder what things you should pack with you to take to rehab. While getting packed up, it is good for you to know what items the treatment center allows and what items are prohibited.
Review the Packing Checklist
Most rehab centers have strict policies regarding what is allowed and what is prohibited in their treatment facilities. Before check-in, ask for a recommended packing checklist to ensure that you do not inadvertently bring in prohibited items. Most treatment centers let you bring the necessities. However, certain items are allowed in some centers and prohibited in others. You will start the admin process when you arrive at the rehabilitation center. During this time, the center’s team will inspect the items you have brought with you to ensure there are no prohibited items. In most cases, the center will catalog your belongings to ensure that nothing is left behind when you leave.
Things That Are Allowed in Most Rehab Centers
You are going to need support as you go through this process. For this reason, most rehab centers will permit you to bring in phone numbers, names, and addresses of close friends and family members who you can turn to for support during the treatment. Additionally, jewelry and other items you wear every day, like your watch or wedding ring, are usually allowed.
However, it is highly recommended for you to leave most of your valuable items at home. Your rehab center will likely have some alarm system or will provide you with an alarm clock, which will not have a radio. Check with the rehab center before going out and buying an alarm because certain alarms may not be permitted. You will be allowed to bring prescription medication with you. The prescription medication must be in the pharmacy bottle it came in.
The information label should be intact and legible. In most cases, liquid medicines will need to be new. The bottle will must have a safety seal on it. Bring a detailed list of your medications and the dosages. In most cases, meals and snacks will be provided for you. The facility may allow you to bring in some cash to purchase from their store or the vending machines. It is also recommended that you bring a journal to keep track of your thoughts. Bring envelopes and stamps if you want to write and send letters. You are going to be spending a lot of time in your room.
It is easy to feel homesick. Pictures of your friends and loved ones can help you get through the experience. In most cases, electronic devices are not allowed. If you want something to read, bring paperback books. They are entertaining and easy to pack.
A Word about Clothing
Rehab centers have strict dress codes that you should be aware of before you pack. Usually, T-shirts, sweaters, jeans, slacks, and cardigans are allowed. Your room will be small, so don’t overpack. Most facilities have laundry facilities. You only need to bring clothing for a week.
Bring clothing that is easy to wash. Some appropriate clothing items that you may want to pack could include the following.
- Shoes, like tennis shoes and flip-flops
- Pants, like jeans or slacks
- Dress clothes. This may include a button-down shirt, a dress, a skirt, or a jacket that can be used for special occasions
- Undergarments, like underwear, bras, socks, etc.
- Miscellaneous items could include a hat, slippers, pajamas, a bathing suit, swimming trunks, etc. You also want to pack products for personal hygiene and beauty. This could include lotion, shaving cream, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, a toothbrush, hair styling products, makeup, etc. You should bring enough product to last for the duration of your stay.
Your rehab admissions office is an excellent source of information about items that you can bring and prohibited items. Make sure to review your packing checklist so that you don’t forget things that you need or accidentally bring prohibited items with you. Are you ready to start your journey to recovery? We are prepared to help. Contact us today at 833-820-2922.