Watching a loved one take paths that damage their overall health and well-being is tricky – we love them and want them to be safe and happy, yet we do not want to overstep our boundaries. Sometimes our loved ones cross the line and we feel compelled to do something about it – to let them know that we care about them and to explain to them they need help. When this time comes, planning an intervention can seem daunting, but a direct, focused approach may just save their life.
Mayo Clinic defines an intervention as a carefully planned process that may be done by family and friends, in consultation with a doctor of licensed health care professional or directed by an interventionist. During an intervention, family and friends confront the loved one about their addiction and ask them to accept treatment. They may provide specific destructive examples and its impact, offer a prearranged treatment plan with goals and guidelines, and clearly explain what each family member or friend will do if the loved one refuses to seek treatment. Addiction Center identifies the following steps that need to take place for a successful intervention to occur:
- Contact a health professional or interventionist. This person has been trained to work with those who may be in denial about their addiction and can help keep communication open between all parties involved.
- Form your intervention group. This may include the loved one’s parents, siblings, spouse or partner, coworkers, and close friends. Children and elderly family members such as grandparents may also be included, but they should be prepared for intense emotional responses if they attend.
- Learn and rehearse. All parties in the intervention except for the loved one should attend. The interventionist can help everyone prepare and can educate everyone on insights for convincing their loved one to seek treatment. Everyone should pre-write what they want to say for practice.
- Establish a meeting place and time. Make sure this place is familiar and non-threatening for the loved one. This will help them to feel more at ease – also try to schedule a time when your loved one will be sober.
- Be prepared for any response. Everyone should remember that they cannot control how their loved one will act during this period. Interventionists are trained to calm hostile situations, and it’s important to stay as peaceful and productive as possible.
Staging an intervention could change your loved one’s life – it may be just what they need to begin their journey to recovery. If you are looking for a health care team that will support your loved one from the start, speak with someone from Avalon Malibu Mental Health & Addiction Treatment Center today. Our licensed and professional staff can help your loved one receive the treatment they need – they will be in good hands. Call us today at 855-548-8394.
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