Rehab is one of the most important steps you can take on your journey to freedom from drugs and/or alcohol. And it’s a big one. Getting ready to take this time out of your life can be scary. But the good news is that with just a handful of tips, you’ll feel more prepared and ready for your stay. Going to rehab can help you get much-needed detox, therapy, and time to rediscover yourself. Additionally, you’ll be given tools that can help you repair your relationships. Here’s how to prepare for a long rehab stay.
Ask for a Tour
Getting a tour of the rehab facility can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your choice. You can get oriented and learn where everything is so that when you get there it won’t feel so overwhelming. This sense of preparedness can be empowering for addicts who are ready to change their lives.
Have a List of Questions Ready
You might want to know about different activities that are available and if you can get a private room. You may also want to know what to expect in the detox process and how medical staff can help alleviate some of your symptoms. Detoxing from opiates will look different than detoxing from alcohol, so it is helpful to know what to expect. You can ask the staff anything no matter how small it feels. If you have any food preferences, you may even want to ask about any accommodations they can make for you.
Look Into Payment Options
Another important consideration that can help you prepare for rehab is to ask about payment options. Ask about insurance coverage, payment plans, financial assistance programs, and other ways to pay for long-term drug and alcohol rehab. You can also check into benefits for veterans. With VA benefits, you may qualify to have a significant portion of your rehab stay paid for.
Ask a Friend or Family Member to Make Sure Your Bills Get Paid
Whether you simply need someone to check that your insurance gets paid, or you want to keep paying the minimum on your credit cards when you’re away, it helps to have someone who can be responsible for it. One thing you can do is to set up autopay if none of your friends or family can help.
Bring a Few of Your Own Items to Personalize Your Room and Make it More Comfortable
Bringing a few of your own items to personalize your room and make it more comfortable can help you feel at home and alleviate your stress while you are in rehab. Bring a few books or magazines, maybe some of your painting supplies if you are creative, and a few photos of your closest loved ones. You may even have a favorite pillow or blanket to make sleeping more comfortable.
Find Someone to Care for Your Children or Pets
In addition to the services provided by your rehab center, you may need help taking care of your children or pets while you are in rehab. This can be a grandparent, a sibling, and maybe even a close friend. Animals can always go to a boarding facility if needed as well. Doing this in advance can help you stay focused on recovery while you are in rehab. Some programs go as long as a month, 3 months, and even 6 months. So, finding someone you can trust is essential.
Tell Your Workplace What is Happening
Call your boss or HR department and let them know what’s happening. Be honest about the situation—the worst that can happen is that they will fire you, but there are some laws that protect rehab as a medical event that falls under FMLA if you qualify. You’ll need to fill out all the necessary paperwork to ensure that your job is still there after you complete your stay in rehab. If you feel comfortable, you may even tell a few work friends what is going on so they aren’t left hanging.
Tell Your Family and Friends Where You Are Going
If you are still connected with friends and family, let them know where you are going. They will likely be very happy for you, and may even visit you if it’s allowed during your stay. Often, friends and family can send letters, so this may be one option for you as well. Plus, it’ll give them peace of mind if they don’t hear from you for a while that you are okay.
