[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”WHAT IS INTERVENTION?” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Often, friends and family members of an alcoholic or drug addict simply don’t know what to do for their loved one. They can be confused and frustrated. The last thing they want to do is admit there is a problem they can’t fix or solve. They usually just keep hoping that things will get better and the person will stop their addictive behaviour.
However, sitting back and hoping things will get better can be a dangerous decision. Addiction is a chronic and progressive disease and right decision is to take action. If you are really worried about your loved one, now is the time to get help from a professional who has experience working with addicted individuals and their families and friends. Now may be the time to set up an intervention.
Many concerned family members and friends look at addiction from a simplistic understanding of what we think could help. In fact, their actions often make things worse for the very person we are concerned about, not to mention the ongoing drama and heartache it causes in their own lives.
Education: For friends and family members of the addict, the first step is getting accurate information about addiction and treatment, such as:
How alcohol and drugs affect the person who is using – physically, emotionally and socially.
How their abuse affects you and other loved ones.
What you need to do to get the help and support that you and other family members and friends need.
For some people, the education process alone is enough for them to steer the addict in their life in the right direction. For others, however, it becomes clear that the person they are concerned about is incapable of admitting they are in trouble and need help. Years of experience confirm that an intervention is a powerful tool to help.
WHAT AN INTERVENTION IS
An intervention is a professionally directed education process, wherein family members, friends and/or work colleagues or employers sit down for a face-to-face meeting with the person who is affected by alcohol or drugs. An intervention is designed to help the afflicted person make a connection between their substance abuse and the problems going on in their life. The goal of intervention is for them to admit they have a problem and accept help.
How an intervention works As mentioned above, a big part of the intervention process is education and information for the friends and family. The format provides a much needed opportunity for everyone to come together, share information and offer support. Once everyone who is willing and able to participate is onboard, a meeting is scheduled with the substance abuser.
IS INTERVENTION A SUCCESSFUL OPTION?
An intervention is absolutely a successful option. When facilitated properly by a trained and experienced interventionist, over 90% of people make a decision and commitment to get help.
DO INTERVENTIONS EVER FAIL?
Of course, there is always a chance of failure. However, as mentioned above, a very high percentage of properly facilitated interventions are successful. In some situations, a person may refuse help at the time of the intervention, but, due in large part to the information presented in the intervention, they may ask for help at a later date.
WHO PARTICIPATES IN AN INTERVENTION?
The most successful interventions are run by an experienced professional, typically called an “interventionist”. The interventionist will help you to determine who should participate in the intervention. Usually, parents, spouses or significant others, siblings, additional family members, friends and co-workers are included. An important part of the process is including the right people – those who have been, or continue to be, affected by the addict’s behaviour.
WHERE DO WE BEGIN?
It is very important to understand that an intervention may not be necessary or appropriate for every family and all situations. Give us a call and let’s talk about it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
