What to Include in a Care Package for a Loved One in Rehab

Entering an inpatient or residential drug and alcohol rehab center can be a difficult step to take. Individuals going through drug rehabilitation are experiencing many changes. Sending a care package to your friend or loved one is a thoughtful way you can brighten their day and show support. You may not always know how much they need or appreciate it.

What to Send a Loved One in an Addiction Treatment Center

Whether you are sending a letter or a gift, it is ultimately the thought that counts. Any sort of correspondence sent to a loved one entering or in treatment for addiction nonetheless serves as a reminder that you care.

However, if you are in need of some ideas to get you started on creating a care package that will make their treatment experience a little brighter, be sure to check out the recommendations provided below.

General Reminder: It is important to note that most rehab facilities often have rules dictating what items, or “contraband”, may not be permitted to be in a patient’s possession. The specificity of these items can vary by facility. Before sending your care package, it may be best to call the treatment center and ask a staff member whether the items you are sending will be appropriate.

You may also wish to be mindful of whether or not an item or message you are sending could be triggering or detrimental to their healing process. Staff may be able to offer some guidance on this matter as well.

Top 5 Things to Send a Loved One in Drug Rehab

Photographs

Some individuals may be entering a new environment away from family and friends for the first time in their lives. Having photos of family and friends, or depicting happy memories, can be a comfort as your loved one settles into the new treatment environment.

Inspiring Poems & Quotes

It can be difficult sometimes to relay messages of support and positivity to loved ones undergoing intensive treatment for addiction; thoughts, prayers, and messages you may have intended to be motivating can be misconstrued.

However, if you know a poem, lyric, or quote that you know will be a welcome reminder for your loved one, it may be a special addition to your care package. While it is recommended you avoid any messages that may be negatively associated with times of struggle in their lives, it is again the thought that counts. Even an inside joke may be appreciated.

Comfortable Clothing

Rehab facilities are not exactly Paris Fashion Week, and one thing that becomes highly appreciated when going through addiction treatment in a new environment is comfortable clothing.

Depending on the symptoms that have occurred as a result of your loved one’s substance abuse, your loved one may even experience physical changes that could mean needing clothing that will better fit them as they progress in their healing process. Familiar clothing items can also remind a person of their individuality and help them feel more at home.

Personal Hygiene Items

Going into rehab can sometimes be a stressful time when individuals may be running around to get everything ready for their admission. Thus, they may forget to bring basic items for personal hygiene, such as shampoo, conditioner, body soap, lotion, and more. Not only is it unhygienic to be without these items, but receiving them can be a refreshing, fragrant comfort to have for both basic hygiene and self-care purposes.

Puzzles, Word Game Books, & Coloring Books

In between individual and group therapy sessions, mealtimes, and other therapeutic activities, individuals may have free time for leisurely activities under the supervision of our staff. Items such as puzzles, word puzzles/searches, and coloring books tend to be popular as they are stimulating, yet also a pleasant way to help put or keep one’s mind at ease.

How to Make a Care Package Feel Personal and Supportive

A care package doesn’t have to cost a great deal of money or be overly elaborate to mean something to the person receiving it. Most times, the best care packages are those that feel personalized, calming, and supportive, yet do not overwhelm your loved one. Recovery from addiction involves an immense amount of emotional effort; a few small reminders of home can provide much needed comfort during a difficult day.

• Choose grounding items: Consider what will help your loved one feel grounded, such as a framed photograph, a soft sweatshirt, their favorite (approved) reading material, a blank journal, or simply a short handwritten letter.
• Remember the goal:  Your primary focus is not to divert attention away from their treatment. Rather, it’s to remind your loved one of how much you love them as they continue with their recovery efforts.
• Keep your message brief:  Avoid writing anything that brings up the past or asks too many questions.
• Send something uplifting. A positive message like “I am so proud of you,” “I’m always here for you,” or “Just take things one day at a time” can make a huge difference for someone learning to adjust to a new environment.
• Check the rules before mailing:  Ask the facility about any restrictions on items that can be sent and remember that all items will likely be inspected by the staff before being given to your loved one. This is standard practice that helps ensure the safety of all residents in the treatment setting.

A Care Package Can Make a Difference

Sending a care package to someone attending drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers is a great idea. They are working hard on their drug rehabilitation. Sending a package helps them remember they are loved and you want them to get better. Often times writing in a journal is also encouraged for individuals receiving substance abuse care. It can be an immensely insightful means of self-reflection during the recovery process. Thus, you may also consider adding a colorful journal or sketchbook to your care package.

SOBA New Jersey is very supportive of family and friends keeping in touch with their loved ones as they enter our programs, as it can be both helpful and healing to be reminded of their external support system.

While there may be times throughout the treatment process that communication or outreach may need to be limited, you can certainly contact treatment staff for questions regarding this and reschedule your communications with your loved one accordingly.