Going to rehab can be a daunting experience, but there are some things you can take with you to make the process a little easier. Whether it’s a short stay or long-term rehab, you’ll want to make sure to take some of the things below with you to keep yourself comfortable. Most of these things will need to be in a carry-on bag, but you can also put them in a suitcase if there’s enough room.
Valid and Personal Documents
This may seem like something that you don’t need to pack, but taking your personal and valid documents is important. Without your ID, passport, and insurance cards (if you have them), it will be hard for the rehab center to contact your family members or guardians in case of an emergency. Documents are also important for filling out the necessary paperwork when you check in to rehab.
However, what’s important is making sure that everything you bring with you (documents included) is safe and secure. Of course, you should leave valuables at homes such as jewelry and large amounts of cash. In addition, it’s best to keep your documents separate from the important things in your luggage. If you have a travel bag, then simply pack them inside there so that they’re hidden from plain sight.
Toiletries And Clothing
Even though you might not use your favorite shampoo or body wash at a rehabilitation center, it doesn’t hurt to pack them. There are still some things that you can’t leave behind even if they might seem trivial. These items include toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo, soap, towels for taking a shower, and basic hygiene products. If you were wondering how to pack for treatment, you should know that rehab centers don’t typically supply clothing, so it’s best to bring enough for your stay there.
However, the type of clothes that you bring should be comfortable, but decent. The materials should be breathable for the summer, but thick enough to combat harsh winter winds. It’s also important that you bring clothes in darker colors because they don’t easily show dirt or stains. A general and overall list includes:
- Jeans and Full-Length Shorts
- Blouses and T-Shirts
- Running Shoes
- Sportswear for Recreational or Fitness Activities
- Pajamas, Robe, and Slippers
- Undergarments
Important Medications
It’s best to include antibacterial ointments and creams such as Vicks, athlete’s foot treatment (Tinactin), and hydrogen peroxide. These items are useful for preventing infections and treating rashes. Of course, it’s always better to consult with your primary physician or pharmacist regarding the medications that you use before packing them in your luggage.
If you have medication for your health condition (such as insulin or asthma pump), then you should include them in your luggage. If you’re not sure about it, then it’s best to consult with your doctor before packing them. It’s also important to bring other medications that you use regularly, such as ibuprofen for pain relief and antihistamines for allergic reactions. But if your rehab center offers them, then it might be best to only pack the ones that are essential specifically for your treatment.
Entertainment And Other Personal Items
If you’re worried about boredom while at rehab, then it’s best to pack things that can keep you occupied during your free time. Your options include but are not limited to:
- Magazines
- Board Games
- Books
- Deck of Cards
Usually, rehab centers do not allow electronic devices because these can be easily hidden and turned into illegal activities. And even though phone calls or internet access is not allowed, there are still some hospitals that permit the use of smartphones as long as they’re handed over during limited times. This will be discussed during your intake interview.
Of course, if you have a personal item that you hold very dear to you, take it with you. However, always ask your physician or nurse before bringing expensive or dangerous items such as sharp objects and electronic devices.
Controlled and Forbidden Items
In addition to the things mentioned above, there are some items that you should avoid bringing inside rehab centers, which will then give you an idea of what you can take. Obvious items like weapons (Guns, Knives, etc.), Illegal Drugs or Paraphernalia, Alcohol or Drug Paraphernalia; It’s best to avoid bringing these things because they can harm you or others in your rehab group.
There are things that you can take with you to rehab but you must be responsible for them. If it’s something that you use regularly, then make sure not to lose it because it would cause problems. Items like keys and wallets should be monitored closely during your stay at the rehabilitation center to avoid losing them or misplacing them.
As you can see, there are many things to consider when packing for rehabilitation. However, it’s important to remember that what you bring is up to your discretion and the policies of the rehab center.
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