What can I bring to rehab?

What can I bring to rehab?

If you have a problem with drugs and/or alcohol you may be thinking about or getting ready to attend a rehab center to overcome it. At a traditional drug rehab there are restrictions on the kinds of items you can bring with you. When you arrive at the drug rehab expect for your things to be searched and for you to be pat downed. Do not be alarmed or offended by this as it is standard procedure. This is done for your safety and the safety of other clients. You will be searched to make sure you are not carrying any illegal substances, weapons, items, etc. There will be an inventory made of your belongings which you will sign as verification. Some of your belongings will be locked away and inaccessible during your stay. As your stay lengthens at drug rehab you will be allowed more and more freedom especially with money and cellphones. Most people end up not bringing enough with them to rehab or they bring too much.  If you know the basic guidelines of what you can bring to rehab then it will make your life much easier and smoother at drug rehab.

Personal Identification

You can bring a credit card, personal identification such as a passport or license, a check or money order to pay for the fee for the rehab and that is about it. Usually most rehabs will take these items from you when you are admitted and lock them up in a safe place. Be safe and leave any valuable at home as things can get lost or stolen. You can also bring medications as long as they are non-narcotics, although, those medications will probably be checked by a doctor and need to be deemed ok. A list of family members, doctors, and friends who are allowed to contact you is also allowed.

Apparel

You are obviously supposed to bring your own clothes to rehab. You are expected to bring casual every day clothes. Bring pajamas, a pair of comfortable sneakers, hiking boots, swimwear, and workout attire. Tank tops and sleeveless shirts are usually not allowed depending on the rehab. Some rehabs do allow tank tops and sleeveless shirts as long as they are appropriate. Any clothing that is offensive or makes references to drugs and alcohol are definitely not allowed. You also won’t need things like dresses or high heels. Keep it casual. Rehab isn’t a fashion show but a place for you to get well.

Personal Items

Personal items are a tricky one when it comes to what you can bring to rehab. Most rehabs will allow any personal items as long as they don’t have any alcohol in them. Those things you are allowed to bring your own shampoo, conditioner, hairspray (alcohol free), body lotion, mouthwash (alcohol free) and sunscreen. Candles and incense are not allowed.

Computers, Cellphones, and Laptops

The following electronics you can bring with you to rehab but there is no guarantee you will get to use them. For instance you can bring an alarm clock, CD player, iPods (audio only), cameras and hair dryers. Cameras are usually not allowed because of patient privacy. If you are going to rehab realize that your rehabilitation center may have rules about cellphones. You may bring it but it may be confiscated for up to 30 days etc. Usually cell phones, laptops, DVD players or handheld computers are not allowed.

Things to remember!

Cigarettes are allowed by most rehabs so you can bring those if you want. Usually they have to be in sealed packages though. The reason for sealed cigarettes and providing detergents is to keep illegal substances from making their way into the rehab.

Laundry facilities and detergents are made available to you so you don’t have to bring laundry supplies with you. Depending on the rehab you will also be allowed to make a grocery trip once a week with a set amount of money in order to get food, personal items, cleaning supplies, etc.

If your loved one is in need of addiction treatment, please give us a call at 800-951-6135.