Detox is a difficult process with a great reward. A medically supported detox will come with monitoring and you may receive medications to lower your cravings and discomfort, but you will still need some of your own gear for comfort and familiarity.
Your body will undergo many challenges in the detox process. While a medically supervised detox will include plenty of hydration and healthy food, you may crave high levels of sugar and caffeine to keep your energy level up. Your access to sugar and caffeine may be limited, but you should be able to get medications to lower your overall discomfort and reduce your anxious feelings.
Protect Your Body and Spirit
Keeping your body comfortable in the detox process will take a lot of cleaning products. Do make sure you bring
- toothpaste
- body wash
- shampoo
You may want multiple showers each day to reduce the discomfort of perspiration that will flow as your body sheds toxins and resets itself. During this time it is critical that you boost your fluid intake throughout the day; the discomfort of dehydration will not help you work through the anxiety of detox.
Consider also bringing
- books you enjoy
- books you’ve always wanted to read
- journals and sketchpads
You may need to hand over your electronic tools, or have them closely monitored, so do go ahead and bring paper books and journals. Depending on your medical team and your care plan, you may also want to bring art supplies. Having something tactile to manipulate or work with, such as clay, paints, yarn or textiles, can lower your stress and anxiety. A container or basket to keep these things contained would also be a good idea, though you may find that this item gets searched before you can settle into your detox space.
Many going through detox like to have a photo of friends, family and themselves from a happier and healthier time. If possible, also bring a smaller version of this that you can use as a bookmark in your book or journal.
Your clothing choices should be soft and comfortable. Cotton clothing will wick away moisture and can help you feel cleaner as your body sheds toxins. Soft socks and a pair of comfortable shoes could be a great benefit; many going through the detox process find walking to be soothing. As you walk, bring a water bottle and work in a sip of water every 20 paces or so to support your cleansing organs.
Pay special attention to the fragrances of these products. Your favorite scents may not be your favorites as your body goes through the detox process. You may find that some textures and smells are quite repellent as you undergo detox. As possible, bring unscented, hypoallergenic products to detox to help you feel clean as you detox. If you normally use peppermint toothpaste, bring a sample of cinnamon just in case to give your tastebuds a break.
To that end, pamper yourself as possible. You won’t be able to light any candles, but do bring your softest pajamas and most comfortable tee shirts to reduce skin irritation as your body winds down from the poison of the addictive substances. Your body chemistry has been changed by the process of addiction. It will change again as you shed toxins. The scents and tastes you used to enjoy may no longer be your favorites as you work through the process. Stay patient.
Your medical records will be helpful for your care team. While your doctor will have sent these over at the request of the care facility, it’s a good idea to have access to your own copy to save confusion if there are any delays.
If you are already taking any medications for maintenance or health conditions, make sure your care team is aware of these prescriptions. You probably will not be able to keep these medications on your person, but your care team can help you administer your medications as needed.
All of your possessions will need to be checked out before you settle into your space in the detox facility. This may be uncomfortable for you and will certainly take some time. However, the end goal of this experience will be well worth it. Ready to get started? Call us today at 855-334-6120
Should You Travel for Addiction Treatment?
