Addiction interventions are often seen in movies or on TV shows. Loved ones sit down and approach their loved one regarding their addiction to drugs or alcohol, and sometimes it is a success story and the person struggling ends up getting help. Is this always the case? Do addiction interventions work all of the time? How effective the intervention is can vary depending on different factors, from the preparedness of the individuals holding it to the willingness of the person who is struggling.
What is an Intervention?
When it comes to addiction, oftentimes the person who is using doesn’t see it as a problem. This leads them to believe they don’t need help. Their denial of the problem could be a contributing factor of the intervention. So what is an intervention? Simply put, it is the process of friends, family, and other loved ones gathering together, consulting with a professional, and sitting down with the person in active addiction as an attempt to persuade them to get help. A trained interventionist is a great buffer to this process. They can help guide the family to addressing and not attacking the person.
How Does an Intervention Work?
Addressing a loved one’s problems surrounding drugs and alcohol is never easy. An addiction intervention oftentimes can be beneficial to the addict getting help. The process of an intervention should be in a controlled environment that is conducive to them listening and processing their loved ones words and concerns.
Generally an intervention includes different steps, including things like making a plan, getting information on the truth and depth of the person’s addiction, deciding on the team involved in the intervention, coming up with a list of consequences, and the individuals holding it deciding what they would like to say.
More often than not, the event is a complete surprise to the addict, this can be beneficial in ensuring that they actually attend. In recent years, it has become more common to let the person know their loved ones would like to have a conversation. Addiction interventions vary, based on the individual and those holding it. There are different kinds of interventions, and a professional can help guide the family on which would work best.
- Simple Intervention. A single loved one tries to get the addict to seek help. This can include the consultation of an addiction professional, or just the loved one doing what they think is best going to work.
- Classical Intervention. Also known as the Johnson Model, in a group setting, loved ones gather and formulate a plan on how to address the person struggling to attempt to get them help.
- Family System Intervention. This addresses codependence and struggles within the family to help them to overcome the effects of their loved one’s addiction.
- Crisis Intervention. This form of addiction intervention usually occurs when a person becomes a danger to themselves or to others, and usually is used to stabilize the person so they can get professional help to address the addiction.
When Should an Intervention Be Considered?
Addiction to drugs and alcohol can be life threatening and lead to some severe consequences. When family and friends are concerned for the individual’s well being, it may be time to consider an addiction intervention. Signs and symptoms of addiction getting worse are good indicators that it may be time to get them some help.
Do Interventions Work?
Around 90% of interventions work in getting the individual struggling to seek out professional help. However, addiction interventions are not the cure for the person’s addiction. Getting help, and continuing to maintain a lifestyle of recovery are necessary for the person to stay away from substances.
Tips for Success
Make sure to plan the intervention so that it is not a “spur of the moment” without structure. Research your loved one’s addiction in order to try and understand where they are mentally and physically.
Avoiding confrontation will help the addict feel less attacked and more along the lines of the concerns being expressed. Chances are they will not want to get help at first. Prepare for these objections with calm and rational responses. Most of all, be as prepared as you can be. These events are not a place to attack or condemn the person for their behaviors while in active addiction. Coming from a loving and caring place, yet stern in your bottom line is crucial for a successful intervention.
Addiction Help for Your Loved One in South Florida
Addiction is a monster, and preparing for your loved one to receive treatment is an important step. At Ambrosia, we strive to provide a safe and comfortable environment for those seeking recovery. Our team is ready to help you through the process of getting your loved one help. Contact us today, and start the process of getting them help.
