Have you ever heard the saying that “addiction is a family disease?” The saying exists because although the addict deals with the substance, the family is left to clean up the mess. Often, someone who is addicted to a substance doesn’t realize they need help or won’t admit that there’s a problem. This is where an intervention may be necessary with hopes that the addict will accept treatment. We’re going to tell you a little about interventions, what to expect, and how to handle the aftermath. Keep reading for more information!

What’s an Intervention?

You may already have an idea of what an intervention is because of TV shows; forget this notion completely.

An intervention is a gathering of an addict’s loved ones with the hope of a positive behavior change. This change may be in the form of attending rehab, agreeing to see a therapist, or simply setting healthy boundaries.

Ideally, an intervention will be led by a neutral third party. A third party will hopefully have experience in dealing with both addicts and their families. This will allow all who are involved to speak without interruption and without being unnecessarily hurtful.

To find someone local, simply search for “intervention specialists in San Bernardino” or “addictions counselors in California.”

Staging an Intervention

Having a therapist or counselor available may not be possible. However, you can still have a successful intervention with a bit of planning.

Each family member should write a letter or have notes about what they would like to tell their loved one. Ideally, they will be written with “I-statements.” These “I-statements” will allow the speaker to focus on how they feel when their loved one abuses drugs. Additionally, these statements tend to be less inflammatory toward the situation, offering insight, but not casting blame.

In order to see the best results possible, try to time the intervention when your loved one is not inebriated. You will have a better chance of them being receptive to what you have to say if they are sober. Additionally, there is a lesser chance of them reacting with violence toward you or your family.

A Successful Intervention

You might believe that a successful intervention is when the addict chooses to go to treatment. While this is the best outcome possible, it isn’t the only possible positive outcome.

You can consider your intervention a success if your loved one was willing to listen. Success may be defined as being able to set healthy boundaries. In fact, you can even consider the results “positive” if you simply feel less resentment.

Handling the Aftermath

Sometimes an addict isn’t ready to hear their family’s reality. They aren’t willing to admit that their drug use affects everyone around them.

When this is the case, you may have to set (and keep) healthy boundaries. These boundaries may include not allowing this person into your home. It may mean that you love them from afar.

Unfortunately, addicts can be master manipulators. They will tell you what you want to hear to pacify you. What you need to remember is that until their actions or behaviors change, they are still likely using. After an intervention, they may feel mad or betrayed, but it isn’t your fault.

You may just have to wait and try again later or simply stick to your boundaries until they accept help.