Drug and alcohol addiction can alter the course of your life. As your addiction grows and changes, addictive substances become the center of your life. Instead of living a lifestyle you choose, your addiction takes control over your future.
Choosing to get treatment for addiction is an empowering first step toward lifelong recovery. For many people, recovery begins in a detox and rehab program.
While getting help is a life-affirming decision, it can be intimidating or overwhelming to think about the process of rehab. You may feel nervous about your first day at a treatment center. Not knowing what will happen may make you hesitate to take this critical first step toward recovery.
This article will explore what to expect on your first day of rehab.
What you will learn:
- What your intake process will be like
- What you will do on your first day in addiction recovery
- What therapies and activities will be in your treatment plan
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and support
If you or someone you love lives with substance abuse and need the support of a drug or alcohol rehab center, reach out to the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health. Our intake staff will be happy to answer your questions, verify the details of your insurance plan, and schedule an intake assessment.
Take the first step of your recovery journey. Contact the team at Alamo Behavioral Health today.
What Will Happen On My First Day of Rehab?
What happens in a rehab program can vary from center to center. However, many people typically go through a standard intake process during their first day of rehab.
Here is an overview of what you may do on your first day of rehab.
An intake assessment
Following a tailored treatment plan can give you the best chance at long-term success. Before starting your treatment program, your team will assess your mental, physical, and other needs.
Your intake assessment may consist of:
- Gathering information about your insurance
- A mental health and medical history
- A family history of substance abuse and treatment
- Information about your current and past substance use
- Lab testing
- A physical examination
This information will help the mental health and medical professionals on your treatment team to create the most effective, supportive treatment program possible.
A tour of the addiction treatment center
Many first-day schedules include a tour of the treatment facility. You will learn where you will sleep, eat, attend therapy sessions, and more. This tour can help you feel more at ease in a new place.
An overview of the rules
Treatment facilities typically have a strict set of rules to keep the facility safe and secure at all times. Your first day may include an overview of these rules. You will learn what belongings you may keep in your room, when visitors and phone calls are allowed, and more.
During your tour, you will likely learn the treatment expectations. These may include when you must attend treatment activities like group therapy sessions and screenings and other guidelines.
Settling in
You will likely spend some time getting settled in your room during your first day. While you will receive a list of acceptable items to bring to rehab, staff will likely search your belongings to ensure there are no prohibited items.
After getting settled in, you may have some time to relax and get accustomed to the center. When appropriate, you may join peers for meals and group activities.
It’s common for people to feel anxious or uncomfortable on the first day of rehab. In a few days, you will get used to the new environment and routines of your treatment program.
What Will Happen Throughout Treatment?
Your treatment team will create a tailored treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals. They will reassess your needs throughout treatment and adjust your plan as needed.
Your treatment plan may consist of:
- A medically-supported detox program that includes medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and the risk of relapse
- Individual counseling
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Family therapy
- Support group sessions
- Relapse prevention education
- Coping skills groups
- Art therapy, exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies that support overall healing and well-being
- Aftercare planning
Many people begin their recovery in an inpatient program before transitioning to outpatient rehab. Your treatment team will continue to assess your changing needs throughout treatment and recommend new therapies as needed.
Recovering from substance use disorder (SUD) requires time, patience, and ongoing commitment to recovery. Keeping an open mind about rehab is crucial as you work toward lifelong sobriety.
Find Help Now
Seeking care in a comprehensive treatment program can give you the best chance at long-lasting recovery. If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to explore our substance abuse treatment and support programs.
