Updated: August 17, 2023, at 12:53 p.m.
Attending rehab is a life-changing decision: your loved one is making the conscious choice to seek health, sobriety, and survival. Now more than ever, they need the care and support of those closest to them; and sometimes, this support comes in the form of gifts. But, what are gift ideas for friends in rehab?
We all get by with a little help from our friends: these tokens of love can show the individual that you are thinking of them, looking out for their best interests, supporting their journey, and awaiting their return.
So what can you send? Here are some gift ideas.
What to Give Someone in Addiction Treatment?
It’s essential to consider your loved one’s tastes when sending gifts, but remember that rehab facilities come with their own sets of rules and regulations. It’s a good idea to get in contact with the addiction treatment facility before you start shopping. Once you know the rules, follow them precisely so that your gift reaches its destination. Keep in mind, anything you send will be thoroughly searched by staff, so avoid anything too personal that may be embarrassing for them.
If you need ideas, staff can usually offer recommendations that meet the facility’s guidelines. They may also be able to fill you in on anything your loved one has specifically requested. Check out our guide on what to bring to rehab, where we provide a comprehensive list of what patients should and shouldn’t bring. It’s an essential resource to ensure your care package meets the facility’s rules and supports your loved one’s recovery journey
Try Soothing Scents
Scented candles and incense are usually a great way to relax, but most inpatient facilities don’t allow them. Fortunately, scented sachets* are a no-fuss, no-flame way to get the same effect. These lovely little packets are filled with fragrant flowers, herbs, and essential oils to help soothe the mind. Dried lavender, in particular, is well-loved for its calming properties.
*For security purposes, choose sachets that come in a see-through bag and are sealed and packaged by the manufacturer.
Help Your Friend Engage the Mind
Mind games, puzzles, and books are a perfect way to exercise the brain. It seems that the best books to read in recovery are not about overcoming addiction. This kind of content may be triggering in the early days of recovery. Try something a little more philosophical, perhaps about finding fulfillment, purpose, and peace in recovery. Author Zachary Siegel suggests these five titles for ‘clean reading’ during treatment.
Memories from the Past
The past can trigger, or it can ground. Select photographic memories carefully, and avoid anything that may have connections to triggering environments or people. A great way to display photos is in a digital picture frame, or if you’re crafty, a scrapbook trip down memory lane. For cozy comfort, send a favorite t-shirt or sweater that they forgot to pack, or even a cherished item of yours as a keepsake.
Encourage Self-Expression
To help your loved one express their creativity, a sketchbook, set of pencils, or a paint by numbers kit might be just the thing. A beautiful diary may offer an additional motivation to journal their feelings.
However you choose your gifts, do it with care and consideration. Make it personal. Remind your friend that they are missed, cherished, and most of all, supported.
If you or a loved one are seeking sobriety, let Landmark Recovery offer you that helping hand. The road to recovery is never easy, but it becomes just a little less scary when you know the ones you love are thinking of you. Call 888-448-0302 today to learn more about how we help.
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