Many people feel lost and helpless when faced with a loved one with a substance use disorder. They may not know where to turn for help or the best course of action. Planning and staging an effective intervention can be daunting, but it is crucial for the addict to get the help they need.
In this article, we will discuss the phases of an intervention, as well as some available treatment options.
What is an Intervention?
An intervention is a structured meeting between the addict and their loved ones, intending to get the addict to seek treatment for their addiction. The interventionist will usually be present at the meeting to help facilitate communication and keep the conversation on track.
During the intervention, family and friends share their concerns and describe how the addict’s addiction has impacted their lives. It is important to remember that the goal of an intervention is not to shame or blame the addict but rather to encourage them to seek help and enter treatment.
Who Would Need an Intervention?
If you have a loved one with a drug or alcohol addiction and have tried to encourage them to seek help on your own, but to no avail, then an intervention may be the best course of action.
Additionally, if your loved one is in denial about their addictive behavior, doesn’t realize they have a mental illness, demonstrates suicidal behavior, or is unwilling to seek help on their own, then an intervention may be necessary.
Planning and Staging an Effective Intervention
To know how to do an intervention, it is important to know the steps. The phases of an intervention can be broadly split into four categories: pre-intervention, intervention, post-intervention, and aftercare.
Form the Intervention Team
This stage is one of the earliest in planning an intervention. Making an intervention plan gathers the necessary materials and people for the intervention. This includes finding a location, date, and time that works for everyone involved and deciding who will speak and in what order.
It is also important to have a clear plan for what will happen after the intervention, such as arranging for transportation to treatment.
Do You Need an Intervention Specialist on Your Team?
An intervention specialist is a professional who is trained in facilitating interventions. They can be extremely helpful in ensuring that the intervention goes smoothly and that the addict gets the help they need. However, they are not required, and you may feel comfortable enough to proceed without one.
Do Your Research on The Addict’s Specific Addiction
Researching the addict’s specific addiction is important, as this will help you better understand their condition and available treatment options. Additionally, it is important to be familiar with the warning signs of addiction and overdose, as this will help you to know when intervention is necessary.
Learn and Rehearse Together
Once you have gathered the necessary materials and people for the intervention, it is time to learn and rehearse together. This is essentially staging an intervention, so you are best prepared when it happens.
This includes going over the goals of the intervention, as well as each person’s role. It is also important to practice what you will say to the addict during the intervention. This will help to ensure that the intervention goes smoothly and that everyone is on the same page.
Could be Helpful to Write a Script
You may find it helpful to write a script for the intervention. This can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the conversation stays on track. Additionally, it can help prevent anyone from becoming too emotional or saying something that could make the addict defensive.
Choose an Intervention Space
The intervention space should be safe, comfortable, and private. This will help to ensure that the addict feels safe and that they are more likely to be open to hearing what is being said. Additionally, it is important to ensure no distractions in the space, such as phones or other electronic devices.
Somewhere Neutral
It is best to choose a neutral location for the intervention. This can be a friend or family member’s house, a therapist’s office, or even a public place like a park. The important thing is that the addict feels safe and that they are not being ambushed.
Have a Plan in Place with a Specific Treatment Facility
It is important to have a specific treatment facility before the intervention. You can arrange transportation and admission if the addict agrees to undergo treatment. Additionally, it is important to have a backup plan in place in case the addict refuses treatment. This could include arranging for them to stay with a friend or family member or finding a sober living facility.
How to Prepare for the Unknown in an Intervention
Interventions can be unpredictable, and it is important to be prepared for the unknown. This includes having a backup plan if the addict refuses treatment and being familiar with the warning signs of addiction and overdose.
Have a backup plan or a professional to contact for help
Additionally, it is important to have a support system in place after the intervention. This could include finding a therapist or support group for yourself and the addict.
Will All Interventions Be Like TV Interventions?
Most interventions will not be like TV interventions. This is because TV interventions are often staged and scripted and do not involve the addict’s family and friends. Additionally, TV interventions often do not have a specific treatment facility in mind and often do not end with the addict going to treatment.
What if The Intervention Doesn’t Work?
If the intervention does not work, it is important to seek professional help. This could include finding a therapist or support group for yourself and the addict.
Steps to Take After a Successful Intervention
If the intervention is successful, the first step is to call a reputable detox and treatment facility like Agape Detox. This will help ensure the addict receives the care and treatment they need. In addition, we can help to make arrangements for transportation and admission. We treat the whole person, not just the addiction, and offer various services to help our clients achieve total wellness. Contact us today to learn more about our detox center and how we can help you or your loved one reclaim their life.
Stephanie Catalano is an accomplished Clinical Director at Agape Behavioral Healthcare. With a Master of Social Work degree, LCSW license, and extensive training in Rapid Resolution Therapy under her belt, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Her unique combination of education and experience allows her to provide exceptional care to clients and lead her team with confidence. Stephanie’s joy comes from witnessing the moments when her patients creatively connect the dots and bravely move toward reclaiming their power. Her purpose is to help individuals understand their past so they can create a future full of hope, growth, and success. Stephanie attributes a large portion of her success to the supportive culture and strong sense of community fostered by the Agape team.
