So, it’s official. You’ve made the crucial step of acknowledging your struggle with drug abuse, and you have decided you are going to tackle it head-on by entering a rehab program. Now it’s time to prepare for your addiction treatment and make sure you are getting the most out of it. This will help give you the best outcome when it comes to achieving long-term sobriety.
If you’re looking for a treatment program at this time, we invite you to reach out to our caring staff at Enlight Treatment Center. We offer dual-diagnosis detox and rehabilitation treatment in a beautiful location in Moorpark, CA. In the meantime, here are some tips you can follow while getting ready to go to rehab:
Make Necessary Arrangements
Going to rehab is necessary for safe, successful addiction detox and learning to live without drug abuse. However, checking in to an addiction treatment program can mean having to change some plans in everyday life. Once you know when you are entering treatment and have an idea of how long it will last, it is a good idea to make appropriate arrangements for everyday life.
For example, you may have to miss some work or planned events. You may even need to make some relatively simple arrangements, like finding someone to take care of any pets or come water your houseplants. If you have bills coming up, either pay them in advance or set up automatic payments.
Make a Packing Checklist
Inpatient rehab programs may sometimes feel like getting to stay at a nice hotel, but don’t forget what you are really there for. In addition to packing regular everyday essentials, you will also need certain items that will help you through the process. That said, you should always check with your program ahead of time to find out what you can and can’t bring with you (certain items will be prohibited).
While every situation is different, here is a general packing checklist you can use:
- Comfortable clothing – It’s rehab. The last thing you need to worry about is having to spend days wearing anything that isn’t comfortable. Feel free to bring along a pair of slippers too or some sandals. Check the weather ahead of time too, to make sure you are bringing appropriate clothing.
- Extra underwear – Many people feel more comfortable (especially during the early detox stages) when they can change into fresh underwear more often.
- Simple toiletries – Only essential toiletries are permitted in most cases. Avoid bringing anything with alcohol in it or with strong scents (this means no nail polish or nail polish remover).
- A written list of important contact information – You likely won’t have access to your phone for at least the early stages of treatment. It’s a good idea to write (or type and print) down any contact information you might need while there.
- Your insurance information and medical history – It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and even a bit disoriented when entering rehab, so you’ll want to make a copy of your insurance cards / information and write down any important medical history just to make sure you have it on hand.
- Extra cigarettes, if you smoke – While you may be looking to quit smoking as well, take one addiction at a time. When ceasing drug abuse, many people find that lesser addictions like smoking can intensify. Others simply turn to smoking as a way to help pass long hours of downtime while in rehab. Do not bring electronic cigarettes.
- Athletic wear / bathing suit – Rehab is all about freeing yourself and getting healthier. Time to embrace physical fitness! When it comes to swimsuits, go with one that is not too revealing or may be distracting for others.
- Some cash – You may have opportunities to buy things here and there, but you may not have your full wallet or credit cards on you. A small amount of cash is a good idea.
Feel Encouraged!
You have every reason to be proud of yourself at this time, though you should also know that it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous or even downright scared. But the good news is that you’re not alone; around 21 million Americans are suffering from addiction. And seeing as only about 11 percent even seek out addiction treatment, you’re putting yourself ahead of the curve and ensuring you’re not going to end up as just another statistic.
You should also feel optimistic about your new future that is to come. While life may seem messy right now, you’re about to embark down a path toward fixing it. Soon you will be able to rebuild relationships with friends and family, embrace new hobbies, and improve your work life. It also goes without saying that you will be greatly improving your health.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
It’s only natural that you may have questions leading up to your addiction treatment and even throughout your time in rehab. Don’t be afraid to express yourself as needed. We also invite you to reach out to us at Enlight Treatment Center with any concerns or questions you may have. We’re here to help!
