Intervention methods, right and wrong, are important to remember when intervening in a loved one’s life. When a group decides to address a friend or family member’s drug addiction, their heart is usually in the right place. They want to make their loved ones aware of their self-destructive habits, and they want them to get help before it’s too late.
Intervention can be a powerful moment, but only when conducted correctly. Interventions can quickly become counterproductive if a person feels attacked, judged, or unloved by a group. Because of this, many families and friend groups seek advice on developing the right intervention methods and creating an environment that helps their loved ones see the benefits of seeking professional help.
GateHouse understands the challenges people face when trying to help a friend or family member struggling with addiction. In this blog, there are a few common mistakes people make when attempting to stage an intervention. That said, it is important to remember that intervention is only the first step. To truly end a pattern of substance abuse, a treatment plan must be in place to provide the person with the structure and guidance needed to end their drug-fueled lifestyle. For help with this, contact GateHouse Treatment. Our services provide individuals with the detox they will need to safely end their physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. From there, clients can benefit from various services, such as an outpatient program or a sober living facility.
Not Being Prepared with the Right Intervention Methods
Watching a loved one spiral into substance abuse and addiction is never easy. Sometimes, when a person sees their family member or friend struggling with addiction, their first instinct is to address the issue and stage an unplanned intervention immediately. Impromptu interventions are rarely successful. Confronting a loved one and addressing their addiction out of the blue can quickly become an emotional battleground that results in arguments, disagreements, and even a severed relationship.
Interventions are successful when meticulously thought out. Addiction can bring out some intense emotions, but to truly get through to the struggling person, the intervening party must lead with love and calmness. Before the intervention, take some time to prepare what will be said and how it will be said.
Take some time to learn about addiction. Addicts can negatively affect the lives around them, but it is important to remain compassionate. Learning more about the disease of addiction can help people become more equipped to deal with a person who is dependent on drugs or alcohol to get through the day.
Why Inviting the Wrong People Hurts an Intervention
A successful intervention will require a delicate, intentional approach, so do what you can to avoid inviting the wrong people. Not every family member or friend needs to be involved in the intervention. This confrontation can be emotional, and if someone lets anger, frustration, or resentment get the best of them, the person struggling with addiction may quickly put their guard up and refuse to let their support system intervene.
An important part of intervention involves addressing the harmful behaviors that have developed because of the addiction. Participants should feel free to express their feelings and discuss how they are hurting, but there is a fine line between addressing negative and attacking personal character. If a person feels attacked by their support system, the intervention may be compromised, and follow-up efforts may be ineffective.
We cannot overstate the importance of calmness and compassion. Intervention methods cannot include anger or aggression. Defending the negative actions of the person struggling with addiction is not necessary. Still, individuals participating in the intervention must lead with kindness to make lasting changes. If the intervening group suspects one of their participants is not ready to speak calmly and respectfully, it is best not to include them in the intervention.
Giving Up is Not a Solution
Interventions are difficult, and the initial effort will not always be successful. Every person is different, and unfortunately, some people are in denial about their addiction and do not need help. These people will rebuff any effort to get them into rehab, and for the intervening party, it can feel frustrating trying to help a person who does not want help.
It is important to be persistent and not take this personally. If the intervention is unsuccessful, try again, but first, evaluate the circumstances and try to understand why it went the way it did. Was the intervention too aggressive, resulting in name-calling and personal attacks? Was the person struggling with addiction under the influence during the intervention? Are they dealing with any underlying issues that may make them reluctant to take time away from home to check into a treatment facility?
These factors can ruin an intervention’s chances of going smoothly. Seeking treatment is a personal decision; no one can force help onto someone who refuses to accept it. Sometimes, even a perfect intervention will not result in the desired outcome if the person struggling with addiction does not want to try to end their substance use. When this happens, friends and family members can only accept their decision and be on standby in case they ever change their minds.
Failing to Follow Up Post Intervention
Intervention aims to help a person acknowledge and seek help for their addiction. Once an individual acknowledges they are an addict and need help ending their substance use, they need to have a plan they can easily follow to address their addiction directly and make meaningful changes.
Too many families make the mistake of intervening and not knowing what to do next. Having a meeting and continuing with life as if the problem is solved will not help someone end their drug use. Before intervening, try to understand what will happen after the intervention takes place. Researching rehabs and learning more about services such as intensive outpatient programs.
GateHouse Treatment Offers the Right Intervention Methods
Having the proper intervention methods can be the difference between saving a loved one from their addiction and watching them spiral further into their substance abuse. By understanding the common mistakes of intervention, families can become well-equipped for the challenges they may face when confronting their loved ones.
GateHouse Treatment provides the help necessary for a sober life. Individuals struggling with addiction deserve access to the best treatment possible. Our elite services give our clients a way to address their addiction head-on and develop a plan for long-term sobriety. Our expert clinicians provide a unique approach to each client who walks in our door, and our extended treatment programs provide participants with care far beyond the typical 28 days. For more information on our services, contact us today at (855) 448-3707 to schedule a free consultation.
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