How to Prepare for Rehab
Entering an inpatient treatment program is a significant step toward overcoming addiction and beginning a new life. However, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to expect during inpatient rehab. Preparing beforehand will help you feel more confident and ready to begin your recovery journey.
Ways to Prepare for Rehab
Learn the key steps to take if you’re considering an addiction treatment program.
Finding the Right Rehab Center
The most important step before setting foot in a rehabilitation center is finding the right program.
Do Your Research to Choose a Treatment Center: You will want to choose a treatment center tailored to your specific needs and goals. Research different rehab programs and gather information about the type of treatment they offer, the staff’s qualifications, and the length of the program.
Other factors to consider when researching inpatient rehab centers include:
- Location
- Cost
- Accreditation
- Specialization in treating certain types of substance use disorders or catering to particular groups
- Availability of aftercare services
- The success rate of the programs
Consult With a Healthcare Professional: Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about your addiction and treatment options. They can help you determine the most appropriate type of rehab for your needs and refer you to a specific program. Your healthcare provider can also help you understand any potential risks or benefits of rehab and support you during the treatment process.
Understand What Rehabilitation Involves: It’s essential to understand what rehabilitation involves before starting treatment. Try to learn about the types of therapies and treatment methods used, the detox programs, and what you can expect during your stay.
Understand Your Insurance Coverage: Once you’ve chosen a rehab and confirmed its payment options, it’s time to check your insurance coverage. You may want to call your insurance provider to ask about the types of treatment it covers, any exclusions or limits on coverage, and any requirements you need to meet before entering rehab.
Communicate to People In Your Personal Life
Going to rehab can be hard on you and the people you love. By ensuring they know the plan, you’re protecting them and planning for their support in the future.
Inform Your Loved Ones: Consider talking to your loved ones about your addiction and treatment plans, and ask them to be a part of your support network during your recovery. Having the support of loved ones can be a valuable source of strength and motivation during treatment.
Consider Child Care and Pet Care: If you have children or pets, ensure you make arrangements for their care before entering rehab. It may include finding a trusted friend or family member to care for them or hiring a professional care provider. It is also helpful to talk to your children about your absence to help alleviate any concerns or fears they may have.
Organize Your Financial, Professional Life, and Legal Obligations
You want to have a clear head and a fresh start that begins by ensuring that your place of employment is notified, that you’re not threatened by legal prosecution, and are financially stable.
Give Notice to Your Employer: Make sure to inform your employer about your plans and any necessary time off you will need for treatment. Discuss your plan for handling your work responsibilities while in rehab and your return to work plan. Also, be honest and transparent about your addiction and treatment plans. Sometimes, your employer may grant a certain number of weeks of medical leave. It can help ensure that your job is protected and that you can focus on your recovery without worrying about work-related issues.
Address Any Legal Obligations: Address any legal obligations, such as outstanding warrants or pending court cases, before going to rehab. It may also be helpful to consult with an attorney or legal aid organization to determine what steps you should take before entering rehab.
Handle Your Finances: It’s crucial to make sure your finances are in order before leaving for rehab. Handling your financial obligations may include paying any outstanding bills, canceling unnecessary subscriptions or memberships, and making arrangements for someone to manage your finances in your absence. Consider discussing your financial plans with a trusted friend or family member who can help you manage your finances during rehab.
Prepare Yourself To Be Successful in Rehab
The right mindset is crucial to being successful in rehab. If you have prepared yourself mentally and physically, you will be have the best opportunity to get sober and stay sober.
Psychologically Prepare Yourself: Entering rehab can be a challenging and emotional experience, so you will want to psychologically prepare yourself before starting treatment. You can talk to a therapist or trusted loved one about your feelings and concerns, develop a positive attitude, and set realistic goals for your recovery. Finding ways to manage stress and anxiety through relaxation techniques or exercise may also prove helpful.
Pack Your Essentials: Pack a bag with the necessary items you will need during your stay at the center.
Important essentials may include:
- Clothing (confirm the rehab’s dress code)
- Personal hygiene items such as toiletries, hair products
- Any documents the rehab requires for your admission
- Any prescription medications you are currently taking
- Extra cash
- Phone numbers or other contact information for any loved ones you may want to contact while in rehab (some addiction centers do not allow cell phones)
- Additional personal items, such as pictures of loved ones
Ensure you check with the rehab center for any specific packing guidelines, as some items could present a problem for you or other patients. For instance, mouthwash contains a certain percentage of alcohol and may tempt someone that is in treatment for alcohol abuse. Also, consider bringing items that can help you stay comfortable and occupied during your stay, such as books, puzzles, or music. Packing light is also a good idea, as space may be limited in your room.
Make a Plan for Aftercare: Consider what you will do after you complete the rehab program to help you stay on track and maintain your progress.
Solid aftercare plans include:
- Attending support groups
- Seeking ongoing therapy to develop healthy coping mechanisms to prevent relapse
- Arranging for follow-up appointments with your healthcare team
Face Your Treatment With Confidence
As you prepare for rehab, identify your needs ahead of time, and plan for what you can expect before you begin treatment. Above all else, look forward to your new beginning. With a positive outlook and support from your friends and family, rehab can be a life-changing experience that you will look back on fondly.
To find a treatment facility near you, contact SAMHSA’s Treatment Facility Locator at https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment or call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
Frequently Asked Questions about Preparing for Rehab
What should I wear to rehab?
Casual, comfortable clothing appropriate for the climate and location of the facility is ideal for rehab. Clothes should also comply with the facility’s dress code.
You can pack clothing items such as:
- T-shirts
- Jeans or sweatpants
- Shorts
- Socks
- Sneakers or other comfortable shoes
- A jacket or sweater for cooler weather
- Undergarments
- Pajamas
- Bathing suit/trunks
- Slippers
Do I bring anything with me to rehab?
It’s generally a good idea to bring a few personal items to rehab to help you feel comfortable and at home during your stay. These can include:
- Comfortable clothing appropriate for the facility’s climate and location.
- Essential toiletries (i.e., toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, hair products, and makeup)
- Prescription medications—but be sure to inform the staff about your medication regimen
- Basic jewelry, such as wedding rings or watches
- Some extra cash
- Other personal items like self-help books, a journal, important phone numbers, or pictures of loved ones
Check with the rehab center for specific guidelines on what to bring and leave at home. Some items may not be allowed, such as cell phones or products containing alcohol.
What's the shortest time you can stay at rehab?
The shortest time you can stay at rehab is usually around a month. However, this is just an average. Your stay will depend on how long it takes you to reach your goals and how quickly you can integrate the changes into your life. However, some patients suffering from substance use disorder who are unable or unwilling to remain in a long-term treatment program may undergo supervised detox over 1–2 weeks.
Many factors can affect how long alcohol or drug rehab lasts for each individual:
- How long you have been abusing drugs or alcohol
- How severe your addiction has been
- Whether any withdrawal symptoms are present and require medical intervention
- Any current or previous mental health issues
- Your current functioning level (e.g., Can you hold down a job?)
- Your motivation (i.e., Are you really ready to quit?)
- Your medical history
What activities do you do in rehab?
Activities in rehab can vary depending on the individual’s needs and the type of treatment program.
Some common rehab activities may include:
- Individual therapy: One-on-one therapy sessions with a therapist or counselor to address personal issues and develop coping skills.
- Group therapy: Therapy sessions with a group of people who are also in addiction recovery, led by a therapist or counselor, to discuss common issues and act as a support system throughout the recovery process.
- Family therapy: Therapy sessions that include one or more family members can address concerns about the patient’s alcohol or drug addiction in a safe environment.
- Educational classes: Classes on addiction, recovery, and healthy living can help individuals understand their addiction and develop the skills needed to maintain sobriety.
- Physical activities: Addiction treatment programs often offer physical activities such as exercise classes, yoga, or sports to help individuals improve their physical health and well-being.
- Recreational activities: Drug and alcohol rehab facilities may also offer recreational activities such as art therapy, music therapy, games, or outdoor activities to help individuals relax and have fun in a sober environment.
Rehab facilities may also offer nutrition programs, job training, or spiritual support, depending on the individual’s needs.
