It’s been said that the only investment that is guaranteed to pay off is self-investment. In terms of recovering from alcohol or drug addiction, that is definitely true. The rewards of sobriety are limitless, especially considering you are getting your life back from the slavery of substance abuse. While the investment in rehabilitation might be significant concerning time, hard work, and finances – it is absolutely worth every iota you put into your recovery.
If you are contemplating going into long-term rehab, you might be wondering about what kind of investments you should make in terms of preparing for this life-changing event. Here are a few ideas on how to prepare for a long-term addiction treatment program.
Manage Obligations and Responsibilities
You can give yourself and your recovery a better shot at success when you’re not worried about who or what you are leaving behind. In other words, get all your affairs in order before you go into long-term recovery. Get caught up on bills and pre-pay as much as you can. This will ensure you’re not late on any payments so that you can return without worrying about your electricity being shut off.
If you have pets, make arrangements with friends or family to take care of your critters. If you don’t have anyone available while you are in recovery, consider the benefits of a pet-sitter. Professional pet sitting services might be pricey, but many offer lower-cost services such as checking in on your pets a few times a week rather than spending the entire stay with your creatures.
Tend to Work Matters Beforehand
Of course, it goes without saying you should notify your employer of your time off. Chances are, you’ve already cleared this with your boss. Many employers encourage their employees to seek rehabilitation and even offer compensation through company health insurance.
If you are self-employed, make sure all of your work obligations are satisfied as far into the future as possible. In either scenario, be sure to set up an auto-responder on your email. This will notify whoever is emailing you that you are away from your desk for an extended period of time.
Pack Appropriately
Check with your rehab facility to get a list of acceptable items to pack and take with you during your stay in recovery. In some cases, the rehab centre might have many items such as bedsheets and towels available for you.
While every rehab facility is different, here are a few things that are an absolute must when you go into long term rehab: Your insurance card and government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license or passport), personal hygiene products, prescription medications, your emergency contact information, and a credit card or debit card.
Also be sure to pack loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Remember, this is a time of healing, not a fashion show. So, keep the high heels at home, and opt for slip-on and sweatpants. You may also want to pack a journal so you can write down your thoughts and feelings as you go through your recovery journey.
Bear in mind that depending upon your facility, your items might be searched to avoid contraband getting into the building. Also, it may seem obvious, but firearms, weapons are never allowed at any facility. Additionally, cell phones or electronic communication devices are typically not allowed on the property either.
Spend Time with Friends and Family
Recognize you will be gone for an extended period of time, and then realize that you will be going through some significant changes. Once you face these facts, you might see the importance of spending time with some of the favourite people in your life. Make a point of gathering friends and family around you before you leave for your long-term stay in rehabilitation.
It doesn’t have to be a big, dramatic affair. Just an intimate get-together will do. Or, you may want to spend quality time one-on-one with various friends and family. This can be extremely comforting, and also helps your loved ones better cope with how you are managing your addiction issues.
Invest in Yourself
Lastly, but most importantly, take time for yourself. Pamper yourself, and do things that will help you more easily prepare for the journey ahead. This might be taking long walks in nature, or loving on your pets before you go.
Spend time acknowledging what a tremendously profound and admirable step you are taking in your life. Recognize that this investment in yourself and preparing for your long-term rehab will reap extraordinary rewards for your new lease on life without addiction.