According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, over 70 million American adults have admitted they’ve dealt with a substance abuse or mental health problem at some point in their lives, shares the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). So if you’re dealing with this kind of challenge yourself, know that you’re not alone. And if you’ve just signed up for inpatient treatment and are now thinking about what to bring to rehab, we applaud you! After all, many people often don’t pursue the professional help they need to heal. The very fact that you’re in this situation means you’re going in the right direction.
As your rehab date approaches, you may feel a little overwhelmed, and that’s OK. It’s important to take it one step at a time. An easy practical step you can take right now is to prepare your rehab packing list. Unsure what to take to rehab? Let’s dive in.
What to Bring to Rehab: An Overview
As you’re thinking about what to take to rehab, it’s important to remember that many treatment centers have policies about what you can bring (and what you can’t). At Sana at Stowe, we put these policies in place with your best interests (and those of our other patients) in mind.
Your time here is meant to be free from distractions, triggers, and temptations. The last thing we want is something brought in that exacerbates your addiction or mental health disorder, let alone prevents you from getting the most out of your treatment. That’s why we typically inspect your belongings upon arrival. It’s nothing personal; we just want to ensure everyone is set up for success. If you have any questions before arrival about what to bring to rehab, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d be happy to help.
What to Bring to Rehab: The Essentials
If you’re admitted into residential treatment at Sana at Stowe, we ask that you limit all of your personal belongings to one suitcase. Because of this, you’ll want to ensure you have the following essentials on your rehab packing list:
- Driver’s license or government-issued ID (such as a passport) for identification
- Health insurance card for laboratory costs
- Prescription card for medications
- All medications you are currently taking in properly labeled bottles
- Cell phone*
*While at Sana at Stowe, you won’t have access to your phone during the majority of your rehab treatment. However, it is often a useful tool for discharge planning and accessing contact information as needed.
What to Bring to Rehab: Clothing
If you’re considering rehabs in Vermont like Sana at Stowe, then packing proper clothing is a must. After all, we truly have four seasons here, so you’ll want to have clothing on hand that can keep you comfortable during the time of year you’re visiting us. With that said, we ask that you don’t bring clothing with profanity, violence, or alcohol or drug-related content on it.
Our unique rehab facility also gives you the opportunity to pursue recreational activities while you’re here. Whether it’s exercising at our fitness center or enjoying Vermont’s mountain landscape on one of our hiking trails, you’ll want to make sure you bring clothing that allows you to be active.
Your Clothing Packing List for Inpatient Rehab:
- 5-7 days of comfortable, casual clothing (no belts)
- Work out clothing for exercise or outdoor activities, if desired
- Seasonal clothing, such as hats, jackets, gloves/mittens, and boots in the winter
- Sneakers or good walking shoes
What to Bring to Rehab: Optional Items
Our rehab programs set aside time for daily meditation and reflection, as well as some individual free time. Because of this, some patients will choose to add a journal and books to their rehab packing list (it’s important to note that books will have to be approved by our staff upon arrival). Some of our treatment programs will allow you to work on your personal laptop during limited periods of time as well.
Don’t Add These Items to Your Rehab Packing List
As mentioned, our policies prohibit certain items from being brought onto our facility to ensure our space is safe for everyone. If you’re unsure about something you’re interested in bringing (or what happens if you accidentally bring a prohibited item), simply contact our admissions team. With that said, as you’re preparing your rehab packing list, please don’t bring the following:
- All valuables (cash over $100, expensive jewelry, etc.), except for what you need for traveling
- Belts
- Electronic devices (if you do bring them, they will be securely stored and returned upon discharge)
- Drug-related items
- Non-prescribed medications
- Opened vitamins or supplements
- Aerosol products
- Items containing alcohol on the ingredients list (e.g., perfume, rubbing alcohol, mouthwash, etc.)
- Any opened or unsealed liquids or gels
- Towels, linens, blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals
- Clothing with profanity, violence, or drug- or alcohol-related content
- Weapons (e.g., guns, knives, any sharp objects, etc.)
- Pornographic materials
- Outside food or drink
- Candles or incense
We’re Ready to Help You Begin Your Rehab Journey
Once you’re packed and ready to go, know that our team at Sana at Stowe is ready to help you find the strength to heal long-term from addiction and any co-occurring disorders. But if you haven’t explored your rehab options yet, please reach out to us. Our team can help you get the answers you need so you can begin your rehab journey, from initial detox to rehab aftercare and beyond. Contact us now to learn more.
