It can be difficult to know how to help a loved one who is struggling with addiction. An intervention can be a very effective solution that motivates them to seek drug and alcohol rehab, but how do you host one and maximize your chances for success?
Characteristics of Interventions
The goal is to help a loved one recognize the negative effects of their substance abuse on their loved ones and themselves. The opportunity for change before their addiction worsens is offered, and the goal is to inspire them to act by seeking help.
During the meeting, participants provide specific instances where a loved one’s destructive behavior impacted them. Then, you offer your loved one a detailed treatment plan that includes guidelines, goals, and steps. The plan also reveals what participants will do if treatment is not accepted.
Intervention Planning
Careful planning will be critical to intervention hosting success. There are several steps to making a solid plan.
Choose the Right Individuals
The right individuals to choose for the intervention are those who do not use, support, or condone substance abuse. They should also genuinely care enough about your loved one enough to encourage them to enter addiction recovery centers.
Consult with a Professional
It is always a good idea to enlist the help of a professional during intervention planning. An addiction specialist, a counselor, or an interventionist can assist with organizing and enhancing the effectiveness of the meeting. They can also keep things on track in what will be an emotional experience for everyone.
Meet with Participants
Everyone must be on the same page before the intervention. Have a meeting where the team decides on the intervention location and date and what will be said. Choose a private location where your loved one will feel safe and comfortable. Don’t tell your loved one about the intervention until the day of. You’ll also want to discuss what each participant will do if your loved one refuses treatment.
Encourage everyone to educate themselves on their loved one’s addiction for a better understanding. This will also support what participants say to their loved one.
Holding the Intervention
The day of the intervention, approach your loved one when they are sober and invite them to your chosen location. It’s important for everyone to remain calm while they each share their concerns. The atmosphere should be one of love and support that’s free from blame.
Communicating how you feel when your loved one uses and using addiction facts will tell them you love and support them while making it impossible for your loved one to argue.
After the Intervention
If they have agreed to seek treatment, it’s important that you follow up with them to ensure they do. You’ll also want to check in with the participants to see how your loved one is responding to the changes they’ve made.
BriteLife Recovery is one of South Carolina’s best rehab centers. Learn more about our counseling and treatment programs by calling today.