Preparing for partial hospitalization programs is simple and only takes a few key steps. The most important task is already completed. You’ve committed to getting the help you need. And if you haven’t yet, call 888.373.8052 to start the partial hospitalization program in Charlotte, NC, at NorthStar Clinical Services.

Steps for Partial Hospitalization Program Preparation

Before your first day at a partial hospitalization program (PHP), taking a few simple steps can prepare you to make the transition into treatment as smooth and simple as possible. These steps can help simplify the admissions process, prepare you for the treatments you’ll receive, and get your mind focused on the task of recovery.

Gathering Documents

When preparing for treatment, you should gather the following documentation before your first day:

• A government-issued identification card
• Your health insurance information
• A list of any medications you’re currently taking
• Your payment information for treatment
• Emergency contact information

During the intake process, an admissions professional will ask about these documents in order to build your progress chart and verify any insurance benefits. If you’re meeting with a psychiatrist for medication-assisted treatment, they’ll need a current medication list to ensure that any new medications won’t interfere with your current regimen.

Getting Rid of Substances

This can be a difficult step for many people new to recovery, but getting rid of any remaining substances in the house before treatment can help avoid relapse. If there’s alcohol or drugs in your home, dispose of them safely and permanently.

You can pour alcohol down a drain, but you should take prescription and illicit substances to a drug take-back box at an approved pharmacy, hospital, or DEA collection site. Getting help from a loved one during this process can help you resist cravings and avoid becoming triggered.

Even if you are confident that you can resist these substances, it’s natural for this confidence to waver in the treatment process. Distancing yourself from addictive substances can help ensure that you remain sober despite unwanted cravings or triggering experiences. If you’re unable to create a substance-free environment at home, a sober living home might be a good option for you.

Taking Time Off

If you have work, family, or social responsibilities, they often need to move to the back burner while you’re in treatment. Let your work know that you’ll need some time off if you can. Ask friends or family members if they can fill in for you for your other responsibilities.

A partial hospitalization program not only takes up a significant portion of your time but can also include some tough emotional work. Even if you think you have enough time for both treatment and your other responsibilities, it’s often best to give yourself extra time to relax and focus on the work of recovery.

Mentally Preparing for Addiction Treatment

If this is your first time attending a treatment center, many of the therapies may be completely unfamiliar.

There’s nothing to worry about. Those in treatment have experienced many of the things you have, and the staff will be trained in addiction treatment. Reframing your mindset can help you engage with therapy. Focus on:

• Honesty – Being honest is the only way for you to truly achieve recovery
• Compassion – People in an addiction treatment program deserve empathy
• Anonymity – What happens in addiction treatment is strictly confidential, and we ask that what you see and hear in treatment stay in treatment

Your time in a partial hospitalization program can help you navigate the early challenges of recovery so you can sustain long-term progress in recovery.

Start a PHP by Calling NorthStar Clinical Services Today

Committing to your recovery is one of the bravest things you can do. Look to NorthStar for extra support when you are beginning your journey. Our Charlotte, NC, treatment center is a safe, supportive environment where you can connect with yourself and others on the road to long-term wellness. Call 888.373.8052 or use our simple, confidential online form to get started.