What Should I Bring to Drug and Alcohol Detox?

If you’re wondering what to bring along with you to drug and alcohol detox, you have then already taken the first step by enrolling in a program. Packing your bags to go to a detox or an inpatient program can seem overwhelming, but making a list of important items can help.

Facility Specific Suggestions

Ultimately, the items that you bring with you to a drug and alcohol detox program are going to depend upon the treatment center. Also, the type of treatment that you’re getting will play a role.

For example, if you are staying at the center for medically supervised detox and then leaving, you will need different items from a person who is enrolling in an extended inpatient treatment program. To find out exactly what you should bring with you, ask your counselor for a list. Don’t feel awkward in doing so. This question is a common one that clients ask as they prepare to enter their programs.

Common Items

You might want to get an idea of what items to start putting together before you give a team member at the treatment center a call. Again, while you must remember that your packing list will vary based on your individual needs and program, you can start to assemble some of the following items:

  • Wallet items
  • Paperwork
  • Personal hygiene products
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Reading or writing material
  • Approved technology

Wallet Items

Having identification on you is important regardless of where you’re going. Make sure your medical insurance card is packed. You should also have cash, debit cards and credit cards with you if applicable. While you are unlikely to be spending a lot of money during your time in treatment, you might want to have food delivered to the facility, or there may be vending machines that you could purchase snack items from.

Paperwork

Speak with a representative at the center to find out what paperwork you need to bring along with you. For example, a staff member might have previously instructed you to fill out and return certain paperwork prior to or upon beginning your treatment. You might have material from your primary care physician that the treatment center will need. It’s also possible that you have insurance paperwork to take to the center with you. Keep all of these items in a folder so that the materials stay organized and do not go missing.

Personal Hygiene Products

Ask what items the treatment center provides and what items you need to bring. Examples of personal hygiene products include soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste and a toothbrush. Other items are shaving supplies, feminine hygiene products and deodorant. Find out if towels will be provided for after bathing or if you need to bring your own. Asking for a list of items that are encouraged and that are prohibited is wise.

Comfortable Clothing

During your time in detox and inpatient treatment, you should expect to need comfortable clothing for the vast majority of the time. Packing sweatpants, casual shirts, and shorts, depending upon the weather, is a smart move. When you feel cozy in your clothing, you may also be more comfortable with the treatment. Further, find out if laundry facilities are available on site.

Reading or Writing Material

Even if you have not been particularly interested in reading or writing in the past, now could be the time to get involved. You will have a schedule of activities during treatment, but you also will have some free time. Reading religious texts or writing about your experiences can help in alleviating stress and feeling calm.

Approved Technology

Find out what type of technological devices the treatment center allows. You may be able to bring only a cell phone and charger to communicate with your loved ones, or you might have the option to pack your laptop or tablet. Going to a detox program likely means that you have a lot of questions. You can get a general sense of what items to pack, but when you want to know for sure, call 844-639-8371 to speak with a representative today.

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