Choosing to go to rehab is a brave choice that many people make to recover and lead a better life. It is a way to get fully rid of the addiction and triggers that might be more accessible in a familiar environment.
Hence, the purpose of a rehab center is to allow a patient to fully focus on recuperating and getting free from their addiction, focusing on their mental and physical health. While the facility you are choosing provides basic necessities, the following are some things that you or your loved one should be packing for inpatient rehab.
PACKING FOR INPATIENT REHAB
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Comfortable Clothing and Footwear Wear
These may be for at least a week, or depend on the duration of the stay as prescribed by the doctor. Choose loose-fitting which are weather-appropriate and clean. Keep pajamas and nightwear, undergarments and socks. Comfortable shoes, such as sneakers, flip-flops, or bathroom shoes. Choose modest, non-revealing outfits – most rehab facilities have dress codes, so they can guide you better. It is best to wear plain clothes – anything that is too graphic or related to alcohol, drugs violence should not be included.
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Personal Hygiene Items
While some facilities provide basic toiletries, you can pack your items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, non-aerosol deodorant, hairbrush and body wash. It is best to keep these toiletries alcohol-free; some places may even require these things to be alcohol-free and unopened. For female patients, keep feminine hygiene products.
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Prescribed Medications
These medicines should come with a doctor’s prescription, with a clear medical history and the medicines should come in the original container/bottle of the brand.
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Identity & Insurance Cards
- Government-issued ID
- Insurance card
- Emergency contact list
- Necessary medical documents/medical history
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Personal Items
You need to check what items the rehab place that you have chosen allows, but in case a person misses their family or has a hobby such as reading or writing that they want to continue there, you can keep following items such as
- Family photos
- A journal or personal diary
- Books
THINGS TO REFRAIN FROM IN REHAB
While your rehab will let you know what is allowed and not allowed, the following items should be avoided at all costs, especially if your psychiatrist has prohibited them.
- Electronics (phones, tablets, laptops — usually restricted)
- Offensive clothing
- Valuables or large amounts of cash
- Products containing alcohol (mouthwash, cologne, hand sanitizer)
- Weapons or sharp objects