If you’re used to calming your in-flight anxieties with a drink, you’re likely dreading the plane ride to rehab. The road to recovery is already nerve-wracking and having to deal with the flight means that temptation will be in reach. As most airlines offer beverages during the flight, it can be hard to resist just one. The best way to stay safe and sober while traveling to rehab is to have a plan ready for what you will do on the plane. While it won’t get rid of every traveling-related anxiety, it will make it easier for you to handle what is coming your way.
Preparing for the Plane
This preparation should begin as you are packing for the trip. If you’re already worried about the in-flight beverage, start by preparing for that moment. Make a plan to purchase one of your favorite non-alcoholic beverages at the airport (after going through security) so you already have an option on hand before the flight attendants come around. This will help to keep you from asking for a drink.
Another option to consider is keeping any credit cards further inside your luggage so they will be harder to get to. Since most airplanes only take cards in-flight this will help you stay sober by making asking for water your only option. Carry cash on hand instead to ensure that you don’t need to pull out your cards before arriving to rehab. As you continue to pack, think about what will make you feel most at ease and bring those things. Do you have a special sweater or favorite jewelry that reminds you why you’re choosing recovery? Bring it with you.
These comfort items will help to bring you peace as it can be incredibly disorienting to come into a new environment, have to sleep in a different bed, and be surrounded by strangers. While the transition won’t be easy, having your favorite belongings with you will help you stay centered. Additionally, don’t forget to pack any literature that will help you re-focus on the plane. This should include your favorite books, as well as any recovery packets that will get you in the right frame of mind on the way to rehab. If you have favorite snacks, be sure to bring these with you. Feeling hungry can increase your anxiety and may also trigger cravings.
Plan in Detail
While most itineraries for trips include getting to the airport, going to the destination, then coming back, planning for a trip to rehab is a bit different. It’s important for the entire trip to be planned out in detail as this will help to prevent any distractions. Arrange for a ride to the airport from your home and to the rehab facility from the airport. Leaving nothing to chance will ensure that there are no surprises.
This will also help to keep you structured and focused on your way to rehab. As you put together your traveling plans, it is just as important to take care of all the details at home. Tie up any loose ends before you go to ensure that you are free of any work or family related anxiety while you are traveling to rehab. This includes speaking to your employer about your going into recovery, as well as telling close family and friends that you are headed to rehab. While these will be difficult conversations to have, it’s important to get these things out of the way before you go.
Stay Connected with Others
Traveling to rehab by yourself may seem like an isolating experience, but it shouldn’t be. Be sure to have a few friends or family members to check in with when you’re on the way to rehab. These individuals should text you throughout the trip to ensure that you are safely at the airport, on the plane, and that you arrive at the treatment facility. As you stay connected with certain friends and family members, consider avoiding connecting with social media.
Since recovery is a time for you to unplug and really focus on getting better, checking into your Facebook or Instagram only serves to distract you before you get to rehab. As you are on the plane, consider taking a nap, meditating, listening to motivational podcasts, or reading some of the literature you brought with you. Ready to receive treatment? We can help, call now 844-639-8371. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day and ready to help you whenever you need it.