The hopelessness that can come from watching a friend or family member destroy their lives with drugs or alcohol can be extremely overwhelming for most people especially if the addict is on the second, third, or even fourth relapse. The hopelessness can often lead people to search for answers and a way to help the addict recognize that their life is out of control. Addiction is a very strong state and it usually takes a large event for an addict to recognize that they have a problem and need help. Sometimes, staging an intervention with the addict’s family and friends is just what they need to help them see that there is hope for recovery and give them the information they need to get started down the long road to sobriety.
Research Your Method:
Interventions can often go wrong or prove ineffective so it is very important that you research proper techniques and that everyone attending the intervention understands the strategies that work. If you follow these guidelines you will increase the chances that your intervention will succeed and result in your friend or family member seeking the help they need. Throughout the intervention process you have to remember that as much as you want to help, it is not your fault that your friend or family member is addicted and only they can make the decisions that will help them reach sobriety.
Make A Plan:
You need to have a plan before you confront the addict. A bunch of people telling one person how bad they are is not going to accomplish anything. Go into the intervention with options for the addicted person. Compile a list of treatment centers and offer possible paths to recover for the addict rather than just yelling at them. You in no way should excuse the addict’s behavior, but you need to offer alternatives or they will simply shut down and remove themselves from the situation. Everyone who is involved in the intervention should be completely informed about the options that will be presented and know when their turn to talk will be.
Practice Before Hand:
In order to prepare for the intervention, it is a good idea to meet with everyone who will be involved ahead of time to discuss what will happen when you confront the addict. Designate one person as the lead organizer whose job it will be to keep the conversation focused and from getting out of hand. This is a good time for everyone to present any research or information they have found about treatment options and designate one person who will be responsible for communicating the information to the addict during the intervention.
There is safety and strength in numbers. You do not want to involve strangers in an intervention, but anyone who is close to the addict that will be capable of keeping a cool head during the intervention should be invited to join. The more people who can calmly state their perspective and show that they are worried about the addict’s well-being the more impact the intervention will have.
Plan Your Location:
Another detail you need to work out ahead of time is where the intervention will take place and when the best time will be. If possible, try to talk to the addict when they are somewhat sober. Morning is usually a good time, especially for alcoholics who are often somewhat sober when they wake up. The location of the intervention is important. Never choose a public place like a restaurant or workplace for an intervention.
The author writes about many subject including drug and alcohol abuse. Please find out more information or seek the professional help from the Richmond substance abuse treatment center at www.fccr-va.com. Also check out the related topics on this website.
