Sometimes an addict may refuse to seek treatment for their drug or alcohol addiction. In these situations, an intervention may be necessary. Drug or alcohol interventions can help an addict realize the full extent of their addiction.
It can show them how it affects not only their lives, but also the lives of those closest to them. An intervention will help the addict to examine their behavior in a non judgmental, supportive, and compassionate manner.
Negativity Can Lead to Negative Actions
However, if a drug or alcohol intervention is conducted in a poor manner, it can have the opposite effect of the original intentions. As an intervention typically involves family members and close friends, the addict may feel depressed, at fault, and isolated. As a result, the addict may leave during the intervention and will face this situation or problem in the manner they best know how, turning back to their drug of choice. In some cases the addict will just ignore the situation all together. This is why it is extremely important to ensure that a drug or alcohol intervention unfolds as smoothly and comfortable as possible.
Tips for an Intervention
Below are useful tips to help loved ones carry out a successful intervention in which the desired results can be achieved.
Tip 1: Determine if an Interventionist is Needed
There are professionals that can assist loved ones in a drug and alcohol intervention. These are licensed professionals that can keep the entire process focused and on track. Should the intervention become confrontational, an interventionist can help mediate the situation. Although these individuals may not be necessary, they do have experience with handling interventions and can be a great resource to use; therefore, the overall outcome may be more successful.
Tip 2: Prepare Ahead of Time
In order to have a successful intervention, one must think about what the best approach would be, and then prepare and become completely organized. This will include who will attend, the time and location, and what will be discussed.
Tip 3: Decide Who Will be Involved
A drug or alcohol intervention should include anywhere from four to six close family members or friends and an interventionist (if needed). These people should be adults and should be someone who has been personally affected by the addict. Furthermore, all individuals should be able to describe how they have been affected by the addict’s drug use or drinking. It is not a good idea to involve friends that may drink or use as well as anyone that the addict may be in a relationship with and also abuses or has an addiction. Some families choose to get the addicts employer involved in the intervention; employers can have a negative effect, but sometimes can have a very positive effect. If one is considering involving an employer, take careful precautions as this could lead to future problems for the addict.
Tip 4: Determine the Best Time and Place
When choosing a location, one should consider a place where the addict will be comfortable; if he or she feels out of place or uneasy, the intervention may not be as successful. Choosing a time may be slightly more difficult as it is best to hold an intervention when the addict is sober. Those closest to the person may be aware of certain times during the day or week that the individual is not drinking or using. It is in this time period that the addict has a clear mind and will be more capable of understanding what the participants are saying.
Tip 5: Determine Consequences
Every person who will attend the drug or alcohol intervention should think about how the addicts’ drug and alcohol use has affected them; each person should take time to write these down. Once this is complete, each individual should decide on consequences that they will follow through on should the addict choose not to get treatment at a rehab center. Consequences may include no longer giving money to the addict, no longer purchasing groceries, paying their bills, etc. Be sure that these consequences are specific, enforceable and can be followed through. When stating the consequences do not become aggressive and do not corner the addict; this will only lead to undesired results.
