Intervention Done Right

An intervention is an arranged meeting between the addict/alcoholic and their close family members, friends, and possibly a neutral party like a therapist where the addict is lovingly confronted about their addiction or substance abuse problems. The key word and idea here is "lovingly" - there are a few different ways to conduct an intervention, but to do it with love and care is the most important consideration. People must also keep in mind that no intervention is ever easy. Interventions, after all, are done in response to the crisis that's occurring in the addict's life, and nothing that's considered a crisis can be easily solved. However, certain pointers and tips can go a long way toward making the intervention a little easier on all parties.

How to Have an Effective Intervention

The intervention is often the first step in getting someone on the road to recovery. Often times, the addict/alcoholic may not even realize how big of a problem their addiction is, or if they do, they consider it to be a personal problem and don't understand the effect they're having on those close to them. With an intervention involving their closest loved ones, they are better able to grasp just how much of an effect they might be having on others. The goal of any intervention, whether it be an informal discussion initiated by a friend or family member or a structured group conversation overseen by a professional, is to get the person to recognize their problem and commit to solving it by going to some kind of substance abuse treatment facility like The Right Step. If the intervention is done correctly, most people will agree to seek help.

Some tips to help you have an effective intervention:

• Enlist a professional to help
• Be prepared - all participants besides the addicted individual should meet beforehand to decide who will say what, prepare for the person's reaction and resistance, and possibly rehearse scenarios
• Interveners should also decide what consequences they are going to impose should the person fail to agree to enter treatment or rehab
• Keep the intervention group to about 3-6 people who are close to the addicted individual - no children allowed
• Stay calm
• Don't confront the person when they are drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Don't label the person an "addict" or "alcoholic"
• Talk in "I statements," explaining how the person's behavior has affected you
• Speak with concern and care for the addicted individual
• Cite specific incidents relating to the person's substance abuse problems
• Stay supportive and be hopeful about change

The Importance of a Successful Intervention

Having an intervention is difficult, but in the end, it can literally be life-saving. If the individuals involved in the intervention process are able to refrain from attacking and instead maintain supportive and loving attitudes, the addicted person has a much higher chance of getting better. If a loved one needs help recognizing their addiction to drugs or alcohol, please consider an intervention. The Right Step can help, because we work with professional counselors who specialize in interventions. For the sake of the person you love, don't delay - let today be the day you help them seek help.