Addictions damage the lives of addicts and those around them. Those looking for help may quickly learn that simply talking to the addict does not get the results that are needed. For many, the next step is an intervention.
An intervention can be successful in getting addicts to admit they need help, but don’t be fooled by TV shows – they are also complicated and can even be risky. Here’s what you need to know about an intervention if you are thinking one could help in your situation.
When have things gone too far? Here are some tipping points.
There are four key types of interventions – consultation with a professional can help you sort out which one is right for you.
An intervention should not be an ad hoc assembly – before holding one you need to know exactly what problems you want to address and be able to say them without anger spilling out. You should also have a treatment plan ready to go and a plan of action – AKA, an ultimatum – if the addict refuses help.
You may wish to have a doctor or interventionist involved in the planning and even present at the meeting. For help in finding a qualified professional near you, search for providers at buprenorphine-doctors.com.
While uncomfortable, a significant benefit of an intervention is its opportunity to display in real-time the problems caused by addiction. An addict’s friends and family can stress how the drug dependency:
The dynamics of drug abuse means that while no time will ever be perfect, those participating in the intervention should strive to line up a handful of variables. Chief among those is that everyone is physically available to confront the addict. This is unlikely to be the first time that treatment has been suggested, but it likely will be the first time treatment has been demanded by so many people simultaneously. Other points to line up:
Most addiction counselors agree that the friends and family of the addict should not worry about holding the intervention “too soon.” Early treatment is always recommended because less severe addictions are easier to treat and the patient may have better outcomes, including fewer relapses and the possibility of a quicker return to sobriety after a relapse.
Experts also agree that if an intervention does not end with a person agreeing to immediate drug rehab and medical detox treatment, the intervention can still create positive momentum in the addict’s life.
For help finding an intervention counselor or a treatment facility, visit buprenorphine-doctors.com or call (888) 842-5501.