Inpatient Rehab Checklist: How to Prepare for Admission

Cheking into an addiction treatment center is a big step. It's an emotional time, and it's easy to forget about essential items while preparing yourself mentally. Creating a rehab checklist may be the best way to ensure you are fully ready.

But what shoulf you bring to rehab? If you are new to the experience, and even if you're not, it's easy to overlook some items. This article will tell you everything you need to know.

Inpatient Rehab Checklist

We'll break this checklist down by essential items to guide you through.

Essential Clothing

Ensure you have enough clothing for 7-10 days. Most rehab centers have on-site laundry. Bring the following items:

• Underwear
• Socks
• Pajamas
• Loose-fitting clothes -Comfortable clothing is essential during detox
• Athletic shoes - During rehab, you may be asked to participate in hikes and outings that require durable shoes
• Pajamas / robes / slippers / shower shoes
• Gym clothes for working out (also often part of the recovery journey)
• Outwear - Jackets, coats, sweaters, raincoats, depending on the climate

Personal Hygiene

Ensure personal items are sealed. Avoid bringing anything with alcohol, including hand sanitizer and mounthwash.

• Toothbrush / toothpaste
• Shampoo / conditioner / soap
• Shaving cream / electric razors
• Femenine hygiene products 
• Comb / brush
• Lotion / sunscreen
• Eyeglasses / contacts / sunglasses

Prescription Medication and OTCs

• Prescribed medications in the original container from your primary care physician or other specialists, the center will dispense them as needed
• Facility - approved over-the-counter medications such as painkillers, vitamins, and nicotine patches
• Avoid un-prescribed medications and general supplements if possible
• Hearing aids, if needed

Necessary Documents

• State-issued ID (driver's license)
• Insurance cards
• Credit cards (if spending money is allowed)
• Medical records (Although you may have them transferred in advance)
• Emergency contacts - you will have limited access to your cellphone, so you may want to make a list of phone numbers for necessary contacts

Electronics

You may be permitted to bring some electronics for comfort and entertainment, while others may be prohibited. Here's what's allowed as a general rule:

• MP3 players
• e-Readers
• Cell phones / laptops / other internet-enabled devices - You may be permitted to use these on a restricted basis

Other Entertainment

• Reading materials
• Journals
• Art supplies (if permitted)
• Comfort items - blankets, etc.

Prohibited Items

• Weapons / sharp objects
• Drugs / alcohol
• Aerosols
• Valuables worth over $100
• Inappropriate clothing (items that are revealing or have potentially triggering messages and graphics)
• Food and drink (treatment centers typically feed patients and do not allow outside food and drink)
• Certain electronics such as smart watches, gaming consoles, digital cameras, TVs, DVDs, Bluetooth devices, wireless charges, and GPS

Quick Packing Checklist Overview

For your convenience, we've put together a quick checklist of what to include when you pack for your recovery center stay.

Emotional Preparedness

This is a pivotal time, and emotional support is essential. Here are some tips on getting emotionally prepared for rehab.

• Expect mixed feelings: You will experience a roller coaster of emotions, including sadness, happiness, guilt, and shame. Be open to these feelings and don't hesitate to get the support you require.
• Set Realistic Expectations: Rehab is not a spa. It can be tough, and even a bit boring at times. Tell yourself that discomfort is a part of healing and avoid seeing it as a punishment.
• Be Honest: Know that rehab is not about impressing anyone. The more honest you are about your substance abuse problems and feelings, the more successful you will be in achieving personal growth.
• Practice Coping Skills in Advence: Brush up on deep breathing and medication techniques to make your experience as stress-free as possible.
• Talk to Someone: Talk to your emergency contacs before you go. Let them know you may call during vulnareable times. Give them a rundown of what you would and would not like to discuss.
•  Decide How You'll Handle Urges to Leave: Coping strategies might help, but you can also designate someone inside or outside the facility as a temporary sponsor who will help you change your mind.
• Be Open to Connection: Connection and sharing are important parts of the recovery process. Be open to discussing your experiences with others, even if you're shy.
• Adjust Expectations with Friends and Family Members: Not all friends and family members will be supportive of your journey. However, It's important to frame it as you taking responsability. A brief note saying, "I'm going to recovery and may not be available during this time," should suffice.
• Give Yourself Permission to Be a Biginner: Understand that not very part of recovery is easy. You may struggle, but look forward to things getting better.

Handling Responsibilities

Getting ready for rehab also means ensuring your responsabilities will be handled when you're away. The following tips can guide you.

Work-Related Responsibilities

• Let HR or Supervisors Know ASAP: Alert relevant individuals that you need time off work as soon as possible so they can begin preparing. Remember, you don't need to mention that you require addiction care. The term 'medical treatment' is enough.
• Find Out About Coverage: See if your workplace offers the Family and Medical Leave Act that covers you financially while you're in rehab.
• Plan for Coverage: Work with your team to ensure your tasks are covered when you're gone.

Childcare

• Talk to Your Children: Let your Children know you will be away. For younger children, you can explain that you need to get healthier and that they will be well-cared for while you're gone. With older children, you can be more straightdorward about your recovery.
• Find a Caregiver: Choose a trusted caregiver. Ensure they are aware of your children's daily routines and needs.
• Alert Schools: Let schools know that someone else will be dropping off and picking up your child during your recovery.

Bills

Work out automatic payments if possible. If you're having financial difficulties, work out payments plans and extensions with creditors and landlords.

Pets

Arrange stable care with friends, family members, a professional sitter, or a kennel. Ensure they are aware of your pet's specific needs regarding feeding, activity, and medications.

Legal Matters

Talk to your lawyer or probation officer: Let them know your recovery dates. Ask if your time in treatment can count towards your legal requirements. If so, find out if you will need any paperwork from the facility.

Ensure all legal dates are planned accordingly.

Restore Detox Will Help You Prepare for Your Recovery Journey

We understand that preparing for detox can be tough. Our team is here to guide you through the admissions process. We can even provide a PDF of our rehab checklist to ensure you're prepared.

Once admitted, we will do all we can to ensure a lasting recovery. Our holistic approach addresses both the emotional and spiritual aspects of healing. We offer comprehensive care from detox to therapy and beyond.

Contact us to learn how we can help you overcome a difficult time and achieve a higher quality of life.