Whether you’re entering our Waypoint residential program in Cameron or helping a loved one pack for their stay, know that recovery is a difficult but significant step toward a healthier life. While packing, you might feel a mix of emotions like hope, anxiety, uncertainty, or even dread. That’s normal.
One way to ease the transition is to prepare thoughtfully, bringing along items that offer comfort and practicality, making you feel more at home and less stressed. Keep reading for tips on which items to pack for general hospital and inpatient stays at Waypoint Recovery Center.
Prioritize Comfortable Clothing and Essentials
Feeling cozy and comfortable can make a big difference during your stay, and especially while attending medically-assisted detox services. Choose items that are easy to put on and remove, clean, and maintain.
Here are some ideas:
- Loose, cozy pajamas: Throw soft, breathable fabrics like cotton into your suitcase. The temperature of your room may vary, so having a few layers can help, too. Pajamas should be easy to move in, letting you fall into restful sleep, move easily, and stretch out.
- Sweatshirts and soft layers: Bring a few lightweight sweaters or hoodies to layer as needed. Depending on where you are in our facilities, whether outdoors or inside, you may suddenly feel chilly or too hot, and layering helps you adjust to temperature changes.
- Have non-slip slippers or supportive shoes: Footwear with good grip is great for any occasion since it can provide support and prevent slips in general. You may also want to pack easy-to-wear shoes like slip-on sneakers or rubber-soled slippers for the bathroom or when moving around the grounds.
- Socks and underwear: Whether you’re camping, going on a trip, or entering a treatment facility, having more fresh undies than fewer is always a good idea. Pack more than you think you’ll need to ensure you’ll feel clean and put-together.
- Home-like touches: Restful sleep can be a huge game-changer in recovery. A personal blanket, stuffed animal, or your favorite pillow can make your sleeping environment feel more familiar and help you relax quicker at night.
Personal Hygiene and Self-Care Items
Maintaining or even deepening your hygiene routine during treatment could help you feel more normal, boost your confidence, or provide a chance for much-needed resets during the day.
- Your favorite toiletries: Consider bringing your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, or toothpaste and toothbrush. Having your preferred products may make daily routines feel less like a chore.
- Skincare essentials: Your favorite lotions and facial cleansers can keep you feeling hydrated and refreshed.
- Feminine hygiene products: Pack your preferred brand of tampons, pads, or liners. You may not need them, but it’s better to be prepared.
- Personal medication in original containers: Label your medications clearly. This can help ensure that you and the medical staff get the prescription medications you need to feel healthy and regulated.
Personal Comfort and Well-Being Items
In recovery, your mental and emotional well-being is just as important to us as physical comfort, so we support all those areas equally.
- Books, journals, and puzzles: Bring along your favorite reads or puzzle books to pass the time. Journaling your thoughts and creating art can also be a therapeutic, effective outlet to supplement your time with.
- Personal electronics, if allowed: A tablet, phone, Kindle, or iPad can connect you to loved ones, provide relaxation, and entertain you. However, be sure to check with us first about our electronics policies.
- Earplugs and an eye mask: Both items help you block out distractions, potentially creating a more peaceful sleeping or meditation environment.
- A small notebook and pen: You may feel the need to jot down instructions, phone numbers, or even advice throughout your therapy sessions.
Important Documents and Practical Items
Having your necessary paperwork and small practical items could make your stay smoother and less stressful.
- Identification and insurance card: We can always help you keep these handy for check-in and any administrative processes.
- Emergency contacts list: You may want to bring a physical copy of important phone numbers in case your phone is unavailable.
Things to Leave at Home
The following are what you should leave at home:
- The belief that recovery treatment is a one-and-done activity
- Disbelief in yourself and your ability to overcome your substance use disorder
Packing for inpatient recovery might feel overwhelming, but thinking ahead and choosing comforting, practical items could make transitioning to and from residential care easier. Put comfort, hygiene, and personal well-being first, keeping your packing as light and secure as possible. Contact us today to learn about any items we don’t allow and get more advice on what to bring.
