How to Prepare for Rehab: A Step by Step Guide by Rehab Recovery Centers

Making the decision to go to rehab is huge and it’s something you should be proud of. You may still be scared and intimidated about going to treatment, especially if this is your first time getting sober. Fortunately, there are a few simple things you can do to help you prepare for rehab. By being prepared, you’ll be able to focus fully on your treatment plan once you get to the facility because everything else will be taken care of.

Once you’ve chosen a drug or alcohol rehab center and have received the date of your admission, you will need to start thinking of the steps you’ll need to take in order to be prepared for your stay at an addiction treatment center. Many people who are going to rehab are unsure of what to expect and they worry about leaving their lives and obligations behind.

Remember, it’s completely normal to be stressed out and anxious about this entire process. After all, you’re starting an entirely new way of life. All you need to do is take the measures needed to keep your responsibilities in order, make a commitment to your recovery, and have a safe space to return to upon leaving rehab.

Take These Steps to Prepare for Rehab

We know how challenging and anxiety-provoking the last couple of days before rehab can be, which is why we’ve developed a step by step guide to help you know what you need to do before going to rehab. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your responsibilities are taken care of and your mind is at ease so you can get the most out of your treatment program.

Step One: Take Care of Your Family and Your Job

Many people are scared to tell their employers that they are going to rehab. However, many good employers will appreciate their employees and encourage them to get better so they can perform at optimal levels at work. In addition, under the Family and Medical Leave Act, employees are entitled to up to 12 weeks of medical leave. As a result, your job should be protected during your rehab stay as long as you are open with your employer.

In addition to taking care of your work, you should also consider your family’s needs. If you are a parent, caregiver, or have pets, you’ll need to make sure your children and pets are adequately cared for by a trusted friend or family member. Planning these things ahead of time will help bring peace to your mind because you will know that your loved ones are in good hands while you’re at the rehab center.

Step Two: Check on Your Finances and Any Legal Issues

If you know you’ll be in rehab for a while, you should take care of any upcoming bills ahead of time. You can prepare for rehab by paying your bills early, setting up automatic payments, or asking a trusted friend or family member to stay on top of your bills for you. The last thing you want is to do is return to a home without power, internet, or to a mailbox full of past-due bills.

If you’re in the middle of a legal process or are on probation, it’s necessary to let the courts, your lawyer, or probation officer know. Depending on your unique situation, the exact way you will go about doing this varies. Whatever the case may be, it’s important that your legal issues are taken care of and that anyone you are reporting to knows where you are and for how long you will be there.

Step Three: Make Sure You’ve Packed the Essentials

Overpacking is so easy to do, and you might be tempted to overpack just to feel comfortable with all of your things. However, you should pack light and only bring the essentials. After you’ve packed, make sure to double-check to make sure you have everything you need and that all of your items are allowed at the treatment facility. You’ll also want to make sure you didn’t pack any prohibited items. This way you don’t have to worry about items being confiscated or forgetting something important once you arrive at the rehab center. If you’re not sure what to pack, check out our complete guide on how to pack for addiction treatment.

Step Four: Make Plans With Your Loved Ones

You might feel overwhelmed by the variety of things you need to do to prepare before leaving for a rehab center. However, one of the most important things to do is to enjoy the remaining time in the company of your family and friends. These individuals will love seeing you before you go and can support you in your decision to get help.

You may also want to discuss with your friends and family how you will stay connected with them while in rehab. Collect a list of their phone numbers and home addresses so you can call them or write letters while in treatment. This way, you can stay in touch with the people you love, continue obtaining their support, and make plans to let them hold you accountable after rehab.

Step Five: Remember to Relax and Treat Yourself

After you’ve taken the previous five steps to prepare yourself for rehab, you’re probably tired – and still a little stressed and nervous – so the last step is to take time to relax. You’re about to embark on a life-changing journey, so you deserve some time to yourself. Think of things that relax you or that you enjoy. Maybe that means watching your favorite movie, going to the spa, sitting by the beach, or spending time with friends. Devote some time to doing things you enjoy to keep your mind busy and your soul happy before leaving for rehab.

Start Getting Ready for Rehab Today

If you take the above-listed steps to prepare for your stay at a drug and alcohol rehab, you’ll be fully ready to participate in therapy and stay committed to your sobriety. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and simply don’t know where to start, contact one of our dedicated addiction treatment providers to find an addiction treatment program near you.

Get Help Today

Don’t go through the process of recovery alone. There are people who can help you with the struggle you’re facing. Get in touch with one today.