What to Bring to Sacramento Mental Health
Preparing for your stay at Sacramento Mental Health ensures a smooth transition into treatment. Our residential program provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment, and bringing the right essentials can help make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Packing Guide: Essential Items
We recommend that patients bring enough supplies to last for the duration of their treatment. While we provide many necessities, the following items will help you maintain comfort and focus on recovery.
Clothing & Footwear
- Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for a therapeutic setting (must be modest and free of offensive language or imagery)
- Pajamas, slippers, and comfortable sleepwear
- Socks and undergarments (bring an adequate supply for your stay)
- Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes for outdoor activities
- A light jacket or sweater, depending on the season
- Gym attire for physical activities
Toiletries & Personal Care
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (must not contain alcohol)
- Deodorant (non-aerosol only)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Feminine hygiene products, if needed
- Prescription medications in their original bottles with clear labels (these will be reviewed and stored by our medical team)
Personal Items
- A journal or notebook for personal reflection and therapy exercises
- A few books for leisure reading (must be treatment-appropriate)
- A list of emergency contacts and important phone numbers
- A small amount of cash for vending machines or incidental expenses
- Photos of loved ones for personal comfort
Medical & Documentation
- Valid identification (driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID)
- Insurance card and any necessary paperwork for insurance verification
- A list of any allergies or medical conditions for our medical team
Prohibited Items
To maintain a safe and healing environment, certain items are strictly prohibited. Please do not bring the following:
Electronics & Communication Devices
- Laptops, tablets, or any device with internet access
- Cell phones (these will be stored upon arrival and returned at discharge)
- Cameras, video recorders, or audio recording devices
Substances & Medications
- Alcohol, illegal drugs, or any non-prescribed medications
- Over-the-counter medications not approved by our medical team
- Vape pens, cigarettes, or other tobacco products (unless specifically approved in designated areas)
Sharp Objects & Miscellaneous Items
- Knives, razors, scissors, or any sharp objects
- Weapons of any kind, including self-defense tools
- Candles, incense, or flammable materials
- Aerosol sprays (hairspray, spray deodorant, etc.)
Additional Notes
All items will be inspected upon arrival to ensure they meet safety guidelines. If you are unsure about a specific item, contact our admissions team in advance to confirm whether it is allowed.
For more details on starting your journey with us, please visit our Admissions Process page. If you have questions about what is covered under your health plan, refer to our Insurance Verification page.