What to Bring to Rehab?

Making the decision to enter into rehab is both brave and life-altering. It can be difficult to come to the realization that you have a problem and then also take steps to get the help you need. While this decision can be brave, it can also be overwhelming. After all, you are making a decision to completely put your life on hold while you take time to get yourself healthy and drug or alcohol-free.

As a result, the days leading up to starting treatment can be hectic and stressful as you tie up any loose ends that you may need and get yourself mentally prepared to begin your journey to recovery. With everything moving quickly, you may be unsure of what to bring to rehab as well as what things should be left behind.

If you are preparing to enter rehab and unsure what to bring and what not to bring, have no fear; we have you covered. This guide will walk you through essential items to pack, prohibited items, and how to prepare for your rehab stay at Free by the Sea in Ocean Park, Washington.

What to Bring to Rehab?

Entering into rehab is a significant step towards recovery. It can also be an overwhelming experience at times, particularly the hours or days leading up to starting treatment. Preparing for your stay by bringing the right items can make the transition smoother and help you focus on healing.

While each rehab facility may have its own guidelines or “house rules” as it relates to what is and isn’t allowed on the property, there are several items that are pretty universally welcomed or even required.

Below are some of these items that you should make sure you have with you:

Important Documents

You will want to make sure you have all the necessary paperwork required to enter into treatment. This will ensure a smooth check-in process not just for you but for the facility staff as well.

Documents you will want to make sure you have with you include:

Clothing

Packing the right clothing will help you stay comfortable while adhering to facility dress codes. It is often recommended that you bring enough clothing for a week, as laundry facilities may be limited.

Recommended clothing items include:

Personal Hygiene and Toiletries

While most basic hygiene products are allowed, products containing alcohol are prohibited. Before packing any personal hygiene or toiletry products, make sure they don’t contain any alcohol.

Items you should make sure you bring include:

• Toothbrush and Toothpaste
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Deodorant (Alcohol-Free)
• Soap or Body Wash
• Hairbrush or Comb
• Shaving Items (Disposable Razors if Allowed)
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Sunscreen and Lotion
• Chapstick
• Nail Clippers

Other, Everyday Items

There are some personal items that may not fit into any of the above categories but are items that you may need or want to have with you to help you get through the day and maintain a feeling of normalcy to an extent.

These items may include:

• A watch or alarm clock
• A journal and pens or pencils
• Books
• Photos
• Religious or spiritual items such as religious texts, prayer beads, or small tokens of faith
• Stamps and envelopes (should you want to write any letters)

What Not to Bring to Rehab?

While the items listed above are all things you can and absolutely should make sure you bring with you to rehab, it’s also important to remember that many items are prohibited and, therefore, should not be brought.

Here is a list of some common items you should NOT bring with you:

• Drugs or alcohol
• Weapons
• Electronics such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other internet-connected devices
• Aerosols
• Perfume or cologne containing alcohol
• Expensive jewelry
• Large amounts of cash (a small amount of cash is allowed for things like vending machines and other approved purchases)
• Outside food or drinks (unless medically necessary)
• Revealing or inappropriate clothing

It’s important to note that should you try and bring any of the above items, they will be confiscated, and doing so may also result in disciplinary action, including being asked to leave the property.

Informing Loved Ones

While it may be difficult to talk about your decision to go to rehab with friends and/or family, doing so can help establish a support system for both while you are in rehab and when you get out. Plus, should you need someone to take care of things for you while you are gone, like watering your plants or looking after your pets, you will need to share information with them, such as how long you will be gone.

Make Sure Your Affairs Are In Order

Just because you are going to rehab doesn’t mean the outside world comes to a grinding halt. You will want to make sure you take care of anything that needs to be handled while you will be gone, such as:

• Informing your employer and putting in for time off
• Make sure your bills continue to get paid, whether it’s via auto bill pay or having someone handle it for you
• Arranging for pet and/or home care (as mentioned above)
• Getting any legal matters taken care of

Mental and Emotional Preparation

While rehab can be a rewarding experience that comes with a sense of accomplishment, it can also be a scary time since you are leaving your normal life and living at a facility for a while.

Being mentally and emotionally prepared for rehab is key. This can mean:

• Setting Goals – Reflect on what you hope to achieve during rehab.
• Practicing Mindfulness – Engaging in meditation or relaxation techniques can help ease anxiety disorders.
• Being Open to Change – Embracing the experience with an open mind can lead to more effective recovery outcomes.

Free by the Sea Can Help You Prepare for Rehab in WA

At Free by the Sea, we understand that entering rehab is a life-changing decision. Our compassionate team is here to help guide you through every step, from preparation to addiction treatment and beyond. We provide a safe, structured environment for individuals seeking recovery from addiction as well as offer the following:

• Personalized Treatment Plans – We tailor programs to meet each individual’s needs.
• Professional and Caring Staff – Our experienced team offers round-the-clock support.
• Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies – We incorporate a mix of traditional and holistic treatments for comprehensive care.
• Beautiful, Serene Location – Located in Ocean Park, Washington, our tranquil setting promotes healing and reflection.

If you or a loved one is getting ready to start a treatment program with us and has any questions about items to bring or not to bring, or want to know if a specific item is allowed, contact us today.