Being in treatment for trauma, addictions, or related mental health issues can be hard. Treatment is often one of the most challenging, yet life-changing experiences in someone’s life. During the holidays, the challenge of treatment is either enhanced or relieved. Some people are relieved not to be home, alone, or in toxic environments. Others are missing their family, their friends, and their usual holiday traditions. Often, loved ones in treatment can be granted a ‘pass’ to go home and visit for the holiday. For the sake of their precious recovery, however, they may be encouraged to stay within the safety and support of treatment.
Sending a holiday gift is a lovely gesture of support when your loved one is in treatment. Each treatment center has a unique set of rules for what residents are and are not allowed to have to ensure their personal safety and the safety of other residents. There are many gifts you can send which are meaningful, thoughtful, and personal to make the rest of their stay in treatment that much more enjoyable.
Cards of inspiration: We are living in a time of great design and mental health awareness. Often, the two come together to great products with a beautiful aesthetic appeal as well as a message of compassion and empathy. Just one card, or a set of cards to be opened over the course of a week, a month, or on certain occasions, is a wonderful idea. Send a card to be opened for when they feel sad, mad, scared, lonely, discouraged, encouraged, happy, etc.Clothes, pajamas, shoes, and personals: Bringing an entire wardrobe to treatment is not often possible. On the one hand, having limited choices in clothing is beneficial because it keeps things simple. On the other hand, it can get boring and clothes wear out. Sending a fresh few outfits, comfort clothes, or items like socks and underwear is thoughtful.Self-pampering items: Some items may be restricted by treatment center policy. Call ahead to find out what you can or cannot send your loved one. Self-pampering is a popular form of self-care. Lotions, favorite scented body wash, face masks, and other related items encourage a night of pampering and feeling their best.Photos from home: Photos are a difficult gift to weigh as you may never know what part of a memory or gesture might be too triggering for your loved one.Take advantage of visiting hours: The best gift you can give your loved one is a trip to see them. Most treatment centers have visiting hours where you can come onto campus and spend quality time, in person, with your loved one. You can bring gifts with you, make new memories, and spend the holiday together.
There is no time like the present to start the journey of recovery. The Guest House Ocala offers private residential treatment for trauma, addictions, and related mental health issues. Our concierge-style care customizes each individual treatment plan in order to heal mind, body, and spirit. Call us today for more information: 1-855-483-7800