Intervention

People who struggle with addiction are often in denial. They’re unwilling to seek treatment on their own. That’s because they don’t always recognize their symptoms. They refuse to accept the negative effects that their behavior has on their lives, as well as others. They need an intervention.

Broaching the topic of getting help with can be challenging. However, people with addiction will continue down their path of destructive behavior. That is, unless someone steps in and does something to encourage the person to consider treatment.

The effect of an intervention is everything. The timing is critical, and loved ones need to approach it carefully. Understanding the process can lead to a successful intervention.

What Is an Intervention?

An intervention is a formal or informal meeting that includes important loved ones and sometimes professional interventionists. Concerned loved ones hold these meetings in hopes of inspiring an addict to change their negative behaviors.

Recovery from substance abuse is a multi-part process that often requires a long-term plan. It’s imperative to understand that people who become dependent on a substance can’t just stop cold turkey. Furthermore, overcoming an addiction is a process that takes months, and sometimes even years.

Warning Signs

It may not always be readily apparent when it’s time to stage an intervention. It’s common for the severity of the addiction to progress slowly.

According to Help Guide International, there are some signs and symptoms of addiction. They may indicate that the behavior has become serious enough for an intervention. They include:

  • Medical: The individual has an overdose and needs to go to the hospital. Acute health problems are arising due to substance abuse. In fact, addiction is causing an increase in the rate of occurrences of mental health disorders.
  • Legal Issues: Law enforcement arrests the addicted person due to the influence of an illicit substance.
  • Violence: The individual harms someone while under the influence. This can occur during domestic violence, sexual assault, or driving under the influence.

More than six out of 10 drug overdose deaths involve an opioid. The most apparent signs of opioid abuse include:

  • Dramatic change in sleep habits
  • Uncontrollable cravings
  • Displaying flu-like symptoms
  • Lack of hygiene
  • Isolation of family and friends
  • Weight loss
  • Apparent financial difficulties
  • Stealing from family and friends

Who Should Plan an Intervention?

A small group of loved ones should perform interventions. Typically, this is close family members. Alcohol.org states, “The intervention will not be as effective if the group consists of many acquaintances who have only superficial relationships with the person.”

When individuals who share a strong bond leads an intervention, it’s a safe and intimate affair. This is important because it has meaning for both the subject of the intervention and the group of loved ones holding it.

The goal of an intervention is to encourage an addict to enter treatment. Research shows that addicts are more likely to seek treatment after an intervention.

How to Stage an Intervention?

  • The Group

    Carefully consider which family members and close friends to involve. Do not include anyone who supports or condones drug or alcohol abuse in any way. Choose people who truly have your loved one’s best interests at heart.

  • The Location

    It’s best to choose a space where the person will feel comfortable and safe. A private location is always better than a public place.

  • The Information

    Educate yourself on your loved one’s addiction. The more you know, the more support you can give. If you don’t understand what you’re dealing with, it’s harder to help your loved one.

  • The Message

    It’s a good idea to know what you’re going to say beforehand. Take some time to discuss important points with the rest of the intervention group. Talk about what needs to be said and how you’re going to say it. Avoid using “you” statements because those imply blame. Instead, use “I” statements that express how the addict’s behavior has and is personally impacting you. Rehearsing what you’re going to say will also be beneficial.

  • The Treatment Plan

    If you are encouraging your loved one to seek treatment, have a treatment plan ready. Find the right treatment center for his or her needs. Make sure it has an opening, so that your loved one can begin treatment immediately after the intervention. All arrangements need to be made before the meeting takes place.

  • The Worst-Case Scenario

    Prepare the intervention team for the worst-case scenario. Your loved one may continue to deny that they have a problem. He or she may refuse to go to treatment or worse, become angry at the suggestion. The team needs to agree on a backup plan or an ultimatum.

  • The Professional

    An intervention specialist has qualifications and experience in overcoming obstacles that can arise during an intervention. Even if a specialist isn’t present during the face-to-face intervention, they can prepare you with tools and resources needed to conduct a successful intervention.

Help is certainly available. Before selecting a treatment center, be sure it offers services for your loved one’s substance abuse problem(s). Continue to offer your love and support. They need it now more than ever.