According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 2.5 million people receive addiction treatment every year. Knowing that you will be traveling to inpatient drug rehab for treatment can feel overwhelming and stressful on its own. Then you must wonder about what to bring, which can add even more stress.
Although we only provide outpatient treatment at BlueCrest Recovery, we wanted to provide you with information you may need regarding addiction treatment programs. There are certain recommended items below to help to make your stay more comfortable, as well as those items which are best left at home:
Clothing
Rehabs usually place strict restrictions on clothing. Your space may also be limited, so it will be important not to over-pack. Because it’s likely you will have access to laundry facilities during your stay, having seven days’ worth of clothing/outfits should be sufficient. These items should include layering options in case of cooler temperatures.
The clothing you pack should be appropriate for the weather, as well as comfortable and easy to wash. Any clothing that requires special care, such as dry cleaning, should be left at home. The most important thing to remember is that rehab is not a place where you need to “dress to impress.” Instead, the goal is to feel as comfortable as possible so that you can focus on your recovery.
Other Clothing Items
If the facility you’re going to has a pool, it’s a good idea to pack a bathing suit. For women, a one-piece is typically allowed, and a pair of trunks for men is the appropriate item. You’ll also want to pack a bathrobe, comfortable pajamas, a jacket, a hat, socks, and, of course, undergarments. Because some clothing may be a trigger that can impede your recovery efforts, as well as the efforts of others, it’s important not to bring any clothing that represents or implies drug abuse.
Toiletries
Some facilities may provide basic toiletries for visitors. However, the general rule is to bring 30 days’ worth of toiletries with you. There are a few restrictions for toiletries that you need to be aware of before you pack.
Alcohol-Free
The majority of, if not all, alcohol rehab centers will require any and all toiletries you bring to be 100% alcohol-free. For instance, that rules out perfumes, as many as made with a trace amount of alcohol. The same is true for antiseptic mouthwash. Other centers may allow toiletries that contain alcohol, as long as it isn’t listed as one of the first three ingredients.
Razors and Aerosols
Each rehab will differ in terms of whether or not they allow razors and aerosols like hairspray and deodorant. Some rehabs will allow razors and nail clippers but require them to be checked out before bathing and grooming and returned immediately after. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check your information sheet or packet for any restrictions or call the center before you pack or purchase these items.
Common Toiletry Items
There are some toiletry items that are common and permitted in rehab centers, including:
- Makeup
- Brush and/or comb
- Shaving cream
- Hair gel and pump-only hairspray
- Stick deodorant
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Sunscreen
- Lotion
Personal Items for Downtime
While it is true that you will be very busy participating in activities to assist in your recovery, you will have some downtime, so it’s important you pack some items to help you relax after an emotionally or physically grueling day. Some of these items may be restricted, so, again, it’s important to check with your drug treatment center to make sure what’s allowed before you purchase and/or pack anything.
Common Hobby Items
If you are engaged in a hobby like knitting or crocheting, these can be ideal for downtime activity. The same is true of a camera; you may be able to enjoy some nature walks while at the center and may wish to capture the scenery around you. A sketchbook and pencils can also help get your creative juices flowing if this is an interest of yours.
If you’re the type who likes to curl up with a good book, a tablet for reading is a great idea, not to mention it saves space if you are a fast reader who would read more than one book during the course of your stay at an inpatient rehab. Remember to ask, however, which electronic items are allowed before you pack.
Something to Write In
Because expressing your thoughts and feelings is so important in rehab, bringing a notebook or journal with you is a good idea. It can be very cathartic to express your thoughts and feelings via the written word—and, who knows? You may discover your inner author along the way.
Music or Other Audio
You may be permitted to bring an MP3 or CD player with you so that you can listen to music during your stay. Also, you may be able to load a few audiobooks, depending on the subject matter. In addition, you may be able to have motivational audio if the rehab center permits it. Items that may not be allowed because they may distract you from recovery include:
- E-cigarettes
- Electronics, including DVDs, cell phones, and video games
- Candles
- Any sharp objects or weapons
- Alcohol-containing cleaning supplies or cosmetics
- Food and drinks from home
- Any medication that was opened prior to your arrival
Tobacco products may be allowed in some facilities following your screening. If there’s room, you may also be able to bring your own pillow and bedding so you can feel more at home during your stay. Some electronics, such as laptops or cell phones, may be permitted, but only during certain periods of time. It’s not a good idea to bring anything that may trigger stress or unpleasant memories, such as certain music or work items.
Other Important Things to Bring
You’ll want to ensure that you bring your identification with you. This includes any health insurance cards, your passport, and your driver’s license. You’ll also want to ensure you have contact information for those friends or family members with who you want to be involved in your recovery. If you are taking prescription medications, check with your rehab about the rules for bringing these.
The most important thing that will accompany you to rehab will be your attitude. Strive to be as positive as possible as you keep an open mind, and you will be pleasantly surprised at the experience you have.
Individualized, Holistic Treatment
At BlueCrest Recovery Center, our team of specialists believes that, in order to achieve full recovery, healing must occur at the physical, mental, and spiritual levels. If you’re ready to embark on your recovery journey in an outpatient setting, BlueCrest can provide you with individualized treatment options. Call 888.292.9652 to learn more.
