An addiction intervention is a process where family members or friends of a person with an addiction surprise the person and urge them to seek treatment for their addiction. They explain to the individual how their addiction has affected their lives and ask them to go to treatment. They also outline the consequences that will occur if the person doesn’t go to treatment. After the intervention, the person will be taken to treatment.
Interventions are not for everyone. They are often uncomfortable and difficult to perform, especially if the person in need is intoxicated or under the influence. It can be uncomfortable for everyone involved, so it is best to hold an intervention at a neutral location. The interventionist will be able to keep the person calm and focused.
Addiction interventions are an effective way to persuade an addict to get treatment. This may be the last resort when all other attempts to help the person have failed. The process begins by talking to the addict about their problem and asking what they need to be sober. The intervention team will educate the addict and remove any barriers to treatment. The team must also reassure the addict that they matter.
Addiction interventions can be emotional and combative, so it is vital to work with a professional to plan the event. The team members should be closest to the addict, and they should communicate with each other during all planning stages. It will help them be more candid and understandable with the addict. When all team members are on the same page, the intervention process will go more smoothly and the addict will be more likely to open up during the intervention.
While preparing for an intervention can be intimidating, it is essential to remember that the purpose of the intervention is to persuade the person to seek treatment for their addiction. Often, the addict is in denial about the problems associated with their addiction and doesn’t realize how their actions affect those around them.
Often, the interventionist will work with the addict’s family members and friends to educate them about the problem. The interventionist will also assist the loved one in getting to treatment. A professional interventionist will have extensive knowledge about addiction and can guide loved ones through the often treacherous waters of an addict. They can even escort the addict to a treatment center to begin the recovery process.
While interventions are a popular way to encourage people to seek treatment, there is little research to support their effectiveness. In an older study, a family member staging an intervention was more likely to refer the individual to treatment than four other referral methods. Several other studies also show that an intervention can improve a person’s chances of receiving treatment.
The process is usually painful for the addict. During the initial period of abstinence, they are almost certain to experience pain, discomfort, and mental distress. During this time, they will need medical supervision. Some people may be unable to handle the emotional pressure of the intervention and may even backslide into substance use after the intervention. A well-planned intervention is essential to preventing a person from relapsing into addiction again.