What Happens During the First Week of Rehab?

Your first week of rehab can vary based on the substances you’ve used, your health history, and the type of addiction treatment program you enter. During the first week, you’ll complete intake, meet with your care team, and start daily therapy sessions.

Here’s what to expect after your phone screening, insurance check, and clinical evaluation. 

Intake and Assessment

As you prepare for rehab, you may need medical detox first. Your care team can tell you if detox is needed during the pre-admission phone screening. If needed, we’ll help arrange detox at a trusted partner facility before you start treatment at Blue Star Recovery.

You’ll arrive on your start date and begin the admission process. The team will ask about your health history and goals. You’ll also complete intake paperwork. By the end of the first day, your provider will usually create an early treatment plan for you.

Meeting Your Care Team

Within the first few days, you’ll meet your care team. A care team is typically made up of:

• Therapist: You’ll meet with them for therapy in individual and group sessions throughout rehab.
• Case Manager: This team member handles paperwork, insurance, and other details related to your time in rehab.
• Medical Staff: These staff members check your vital signs and help with medications when needed.

If you do not immediately connect with the members of your team, it’s okay. Give it a few days. As you get to know your team, you’ll likely feel more comfortable with them.

Getting Used to a Structured Schedule

Not everyone follows a set schedule before rehab, so getting an hour-by-hour plan may take some getting used to. It may feel strict at first, but following a routine can help. Therapy and skill-building classes happen at set times, and you’ll need to attend them.

If it feels like you’re struggling to adjust to a strict schedule, give it a few days. Your daily routine is changing a lot, and it may take some time to get used to your new rhythm.

What Do Therapy Sessions Look Like Early On?

At first, therapy focuses more on helping you get used to the center and how things work. You may not start with deeper work right away. You’ll learn basic coping skills, go over house rules, and practice speaking in groups. Individual therapy gives you time to get to know your therapist and feel more comfortable with them.

Is It Normal to Still Have Cravings the First Week?

Yes — it’s normal to still have cravings the first week. Cravings do not mean that your treatment isn’t working. Your body and mind are still getting used to the new place, activities, and schedule. So, it’s normal to have cravings during this time.

No matter how strong your cravings are, let your care team know. They’ll improve as you get more comfortable with treatment.

Managing Difficult Emotions in the First Few Days

In the first few days, you may feel many strong emotions. Feelings like anxiety and relief are common and often arise around the same time. You may feel relief because you’re getting help while also feeling anxious about what comes next.

Be specific about your feelings with your therapist. Instead of saying you feel “off,” tell your therapist how you feel. You might feel anxious, excited, depressed, or a mix of these emotions. Clear communication gives them a better chance of providing support. 

How Does Family Communication Work During the First Week?

Family communication policies vary with the provider and level of care. Some programs may include family updates or sessions in the first couple of weeks, but it’s worth checking with your provider ahead of time if this is a priority for you. For family-specific issues, you can also opt for family therapy.

Blue Star Recovery offers a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and an Outpatient Program, so you’ll be staying at home or in supportive housing at night, rather than overnight in a Blue Star facility. 

Your care team will recommend the right level of care for you. As you make progress, you may move to a higher or lower level of care. 

For example, if you no longer need the highest level of outpatient care with PHP, you can step down to IOP. Many people then transition from IOP to an Outpatient Program, as well.

Setting Early Treatment Goals

During the intake process, you can set general goals with your care team. Keep your first goals simple and realistic. For example, you might aim to attend every session or talk with your therapist about a specific issue.

As the week goes on and your team learns more about you, they can help you make your goals more specific and find ways to reach them. After the first week, your plan will continue to evolve based on your needs as you adjust to your schedule and treatment.

Starting Your First Week at Blue Star Recovery Center

Your first week marks some serious changes, and it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed. Most importantly, though: You’re getting help.

Blue Star Recovery Center walks with you through this first week and stays involved throughout your entire treatment process. If you’re curious about how to navigate the first week of rehab and beyond, contact us to open a conversation about our treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cravings get worse or better during the first week?

Most people experience their strongest cravings in the first few days and gradually improve as their bodies and routines adjust. Still, it depends on your history of use and the specific substance.

How much contact can I have with family during the first week?

Family contact policies vary by program, but many providers include family updates or sessions in the first few weeks of care. Blue Star Recovery does not offer residential care, so you’ll be able to contact your family if your treatment is PHP, IOP, or outpatient care.

What if I don’t feel ready to participate in group therapy right away?

Some programs may start with individual therapy before including others in group therapy. If your plan includes group therapy from the start, tell your care team. They can find an approach that meets your needs, including if it starts with individual therapy.

Sources: 

1. Treatment Approaches for Drug Addiction — National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
2. The ASAM Criteria — American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)
3. Patient-Centered Feedback and Early Engagement in Substance Use Disorder Treatment — National Library of Medicine (PubMed Central)