Walking into a rehab facility for the first time takes tremendous courage. If you’re wondering what to expect in rehab during those crucial first 24 hours, you’re not alone. Most people feel nervous, scared or uncertain about what lies ahead. Understanding the process can help ease some of that anxiety and prepare you for this important step toward recovery.
Arriving at the Facility: Intake and Orientation
Your first few hours at a treatment center focus on getting you settled and comfortable. Most facilities handle intake differently depending on whether you’re doing a rehab self check-in or arriving through a referral, but the basic process is similar.
When you arrive, you’ll typically meet with an admissions coordinator who’ll walk you through paperwork, verify your insurance and answer questions. Don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed. Staff members are trained to help people who are nervous or emotional during this process. They understand that checking in to rehab is a big decision, and they’ll support you every step of the way.
You’ll receive a tour of the facility, including your room, common areas, dining facilities and activity spaces. Many people feel relieved to see that most treatment centers are comfortable, welcoming environments, rather than the sterile, institutional settings you might have imagined. You’ll also receive basic information about daily schedules, rules and what to expect over the next few days.
Initial Medical and Mental Health Assessments
Your first day will include assessments to help staff understand your specific needs and create an appropriate treatment plan. These thorough evaluations are a standard part of quality addiction treatment and help ensure you receive the right level of care from the very beginning.
The medical assessment covers your physical health, current medications, substance use history and any withdrawal symptoms you might be experiencing. A nurse or doctor will check your vital signs, review your medical history and determine if you need medical supervision during detox time. This process isn’t meant to be invasive. It’s designed to keep you safe and comfortable during your stay.
Mental health professionals will also meet with you to discuss your emotional state, any co-occurring mental health conditions and your personal goals for treatment. These conversations help staff understand what substances you’ve been using, why you started using them and what challenges you face in staying sober.
Meeting the Treatment Team and Setting Goals
During your first day, you’ll begin meeting the various professionals who’ll support your recovery journey. Your treatment team typically includes counselors, medical staff, case managers and sometimes peer support specialists who are in recovery themselves.
These initial meetings focus on getting to know you as a person, not just someone with an addiction. Staff want to understand your background, your relationships, your career goals and what motivates you to get sober. This information helps them create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and circumstances.
You’ll also start setting preliminary goals for your treatment. These might include immediate goals like completing detox safely, medium-term goals like learning coping strategies and long-term goals like rebuilding relationships or returning to work. Don’t worry if you’re not sure what your goals are yet. This is an ongoing process that develops throughout your stay.
Detox Considerations During Your First Day
If you need medical detox, your first day will look different from that of someone who doesn’t require this level of care. Detox time varies significantly depending on the substances you’ve been using, how long you’ve been using them and your overall health status.
Medical staff will monitor you closely for withdrawal symptoms and provide medications if needed to keep you comfortable and safe. Some people feel anxious about detox, but medical supervision makes the process much more manageable than trying to quit on your own. Staff can give you medications to ease nausea, anxiety, sleep problems and any other withdrawal symptoms that arise.
Even if you don’t need medical detox, your body is still adjusting to being substance-free, and you might experience some physical or emotional discomfort. This is completely normal, and staff are prepared to help you through these initial challenges.
Common Emotions and How Staff Help Ease the Transition
It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions during your first day in rehab. You might feel scared, sad, angry, hopeful, confused or all these at once. Many people also feel embarrassed or ashamed about needing treatment, but remember that addiction is a medical condition, not something that’s your fault. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2.3 million people with alcohol use disorder received treatment in 2023. You’re certainly not the first person to need a helping hand to recover from an addiction, and you won’t be the last, either. Reaching out for help is courageous and could turn your life around.
Even when you know it’s the right thing to do, detox time can still be tough. Staff members at rehab centers are trained to understand your emotional ups and downs and provide support without judgment. They might offer comfort items like extra blankets, help you call family members or simply sit with you if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Most facilities also have peer support available. Talking to someone who’s been through treatment themselves can be incredibly reassuring.
Some people worry about privacy or what others will think, but treatment centers maintain strict confidentiality rules. Your fellow patients are dealing with their own challenges and are far more likely to be supportive than judgmental.
Tips for Making the Most of Your First Day
Your first day sets the tone for your entire treatment experience, so try to approach it with an open mind.
- Be honest with staff. The more accurate information you provide about your substance use, mental health and personal situation, the better they can help you.
- Ask questions. If you don’t understand something or feel confused about the process, speak up. Staff want you to feel informed and comfortable.
- Try to rest. Your body and mind have been through a lot, and quality sleep will help you feel more stable and ready to engage in treatment.
- Connect with others when you’re ready. You don’t have to be social immediately, but other patients can become valuable sources of support and understanding.
- Focus on today. Don’t worry about completing the entire program right now: just focus on getting through this first day successfully.
Learn What to Expect in Rehab: Contact NRH Today
Your first 24 hours in rehab mark the beginning of a life-changing journey, and while it might feel scary now, you’re taking the most important step toward reclaiming your health and freedom. The National Rehab Hotline understands that choosing treatment feels overwhelming, and we’re here to help you find a facility where you’ll feel supported from day one. You don’t have to figure this out alone. Support is available 24-7 to help you take this crucial next step, so please contact us today.