What to bring to a friend in treatment...
By maezee
@maezee (41988)
United States
January 19, 2012 3:13pm CST
...Won't get into the emotional aspect of this discussion (I will save that for another day..and definitely another discussion) but I found out a few weeks ago one of my friends who I grew up with, and eventually grew apart from (we drifted about a year ago) has been addicted to heroin for about 8 months. I knew she was into something, but I thought it was mainly just partying. (From the few times I've seen her...) Now she is in mandated in-patient treatment. For 30 days.
It's a hard spot to be in because she keeps asking me for money (and I keep saying no). I'm wondering what you think a nice 'gift' would be to get her - ala a fruit basket kind of thing?
So far all I've thought of is cigarettes and magazines. I'm not even sure what kind of regulations this place has, but in general, what do you get for your friend in rehab?
5 responses
@bounce58 (17385)
• Canada
21 Jan 12
I've never been in this situation, but I think it would be good to know about the place. Maybe an online research, or even a call to the place to ask somebody in authority what they suggest to bring. I'm sure they've been asked that more than a few times.
Sorry to hear about your friend.
@savypat (20216)
• United States
21 Jan 12
In rehab a person is in a very difficult place, what they need most is to be reassured that they are valued and loved. I would bring something that I made for them to wear or just some pretty thing that will remind them how treasured they are by me.
@floridachick (603)
• United States
19 Jan 12
I've never had to deal with this kind of thing, but first thing is ask what the regulations are first because some places may not allow gifts at all. But to answer your question i'd go with something that she likes, or something that will keep her busy. She is going to be going through a lot of changes if she is with drawing if it were my friend i'd go with a journal so she can write down whatever she is thinking or feeling. sorry I couldn't be of any more help, but good luck to you and your friend.
@fannitia (2167)
• Bulgaria
19 Jan 12
Hi, Maezee, I won't repeat what others have said. I'll add that you could find something to read but not just a magazine - a book that could help her to overcome her problem, maybe one of those self-help books... Or maybe this is a stupid idea...
I think also that you should be ready to speak with her - this is hard, I know, but it could be the best help. Good luck.
