A study from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services found that 90% of people who need rehab the most don’t go.
If you want to take back your life, going to a rehab facility that offers therapy and plenty of activities is your best chance at recovery.
If you or a loved one is getting ready for this incredible journey, here is a comprehensive list of what to pack for rehab to stay happy, comfortable, and safe.
1. What Should I Pack for Rehab? Things that Make You Feel Comfortable
Getting through the detox phase can be difficult, so keeping your comfort in mind is vital. Be sure to pack the right clothes and small mementos from loved ones so you can feel your best.
What to bring to rehab to wear:
- A week’s worth of comfortable clothes
- An exercise outfit
- A modest bathing suit
- Sneakers and flip flops
- Cozy pajamas (and a bathrobe and slippers, if you choose)
Other small items to keep your spirits lifted:
- Letters of encouragement from loved ones
- Cherished photos
- Tiny gifts or items that are extremely important to you
- A cozy blanket that smells like home
Do keep in mind that space is limited at rehab facilities, so you don’t need to pack as much as you think. Since you’ll be able to do laundry, you only need a handful of outfits for your stay.
2. What to Pack for Rehab to Stay Healthy
Many people who go to rehab have pre-existing conditions that require medication to treat. When packing for rehab, make sure everything you bring has in-tact labels. Bringing unopened items is preferable.
Any medication should have your name, your doctor’s contact information, and the date of your prescription on the label. Make sure you bring enough medication for the duration of your stay.
If your rehab center doesn’t provide vitamins, you may want to pack a multivitamin to make sure your body stays healthy during your detox.
All essential toiletries like deodorant, mouthwash, toothpaste, makeup, shampoo and conditioner, soap, and sunscreen need to be alcohol-free.
3. A Journal Should Definitely Be on Your Rehab Packing List
Although it’s not essential like clothes or toiletries, a journal is highly recommended for anyone entering rehab.
Writing down your thoughts and experiences each day will help you reflect on your progress and process what’s happening. Not only is it uplifting to see how far you’ve come, but writing down your goals will also hold you more accountable.
4. Bring Entertainment that Doesn’t Require Internet
Smartphones, laptops, and other electronics are at the top of the list of what not to bring to rehab. Your stay is all about finding yourself. Unsupervised contact with the outside world can hurt your progress.
Paperback books and appropriate magazines are great ways to enjoy some downtime. Many facilities will offer several different types of entertainment so you don’t get bored. Small electronics like mp3 players are usually permitted if their only function is to store music.
5. Keep Small Bills and a Debit Card on Hand
You’ll need small bills and change if you want to get snacks from vending machines or use pay phones to speak with loved ones when allowed.
Lots of rehabs will organize small outings to the store so you can stock up on toiletries and snacks, so having a debit or credit card will allow you to make purchases.
Want to Go to the Best Rehab Facility in Florida?
Now that you know what to pack for rehab, you can make sure you or a loved one is prepared for the journey of getting clean.
If you want to go to an effective rehab center that utilizes the best methods, Pathways Florida would love to help you. Learn more about us to see why our facility helps so many people get sober.