Alcohol and Addiction Intervention

Alcohol & Addiction Intervention - what does it entail?

Simply put, an intervention is when a health professional, family and friends, employers, or colleagues of an alcoholic or drug addict, attempt to intervene in the destructive behaviors exhibited by an addicted individual. This article will not focus on interventions conducted by a physician or other medical professional.

During an intervention, an interventionist and the family will attempt to break through the alcoholic/addict's denial about their substance abuse problem. The intervention is conducted in a loving and caring manner because after all, the family does love and care about the person and sincerely wants to see them escape the ravages of alcohol/drug addiction.

The following are some commonly asked questions about interventions:

How do I know if it's the right time for an intervention?

The fact that you are researching this issue might in itself be an indication that the alcoholic/addict's addiction is likely at the point of needing intervention. Interventions usually occur after an individual's drinking or drugging is out of control and they seem unlikely to stop the destructive behaviors on their own. The majority of individuals at this stage are in denial of the severity of their substance abuse problems and the detrimental effects not only on the addict themselves, but on their friends and families as well.

Is a professional interventionist really necessary? Can't we just do this on our own?

Yes, to both questions. Your family certainly can try to conduct an intervention. However, most professional interventionists are carefully trained to achieve the greatest success rate with an alcoholic/addict accepting treatment. Remember also that interventions by their very nature, are highly sensitive and possibly volatile situations. One more reason to have a professional interventionist is the fact that the addicted individual has probably already heard about the family's concerns and feelings. The professionally trained interventionist is objective and new to the situation and trained to communicate effectively with an addicted individual.

What if the alcoholic/addict is not likely to cooperate?

Interventionists are trained to deal with these situations. They will carefully instruct the family members on how to deal with this issue if an an individual will not cooperate during the intervention.

I don't feel comfortable criticizing my family member. Will this be necessary?

No. Criticizing or arguing with your loved one is not part of an intervention and in fact, most interventions are conducted in a conversational tone. The goal of the intervention is to let the alcoholic/addict know how much you love and care and only want the best for them. This is accomplished with sensitivity and concern on the part of family members and the interventionist.

What if the person refuses to go to treatment?

The reality of the situation is that an individual, if over the age of 18, cannot be forced to go to treatment unless ordered to do so by the courts.

What is the plan for after an intervention?

Interventionists will ask questions about the individual's history with drugs and alcohol. Based partly on this criteria, they will contact a treatment facility and work with the facility until the alcoholic/addict goes in for assessment and treatment. Some interventionists like to remain in contact with the family during the individual's course of treatment, as well as for a period of time afterword.

Does using an interventionist guarantee the alcoholic/addict will quit drinking/using?

No. Whether a person is successful in achieving and maintaining sobriety is really only up to the addicted individual themselves. However, using an interventionist, and encouraging an individual to go to treatment, are two important factors in motivating a person to get, and stay, sober.

Will all this be done in confidence?

Absolutely! You can trust that an interventionist will act in complete confidence.

What will all this cost?

This differs with each provider but just to give you a very general idea, will likely be in the thousands of dollars. Be sure to inquire of the interventionist exactly what the fees do, and do not, cover.

How do I find a good interventionist?

There are listings for interventionists on the web and you should feel free to call and ask questions and discuss your concerns. See if you feel a connection with the person and if you do, the interventionist will let you know how to proceed. Currently, there are no government mandated requirements for interventionists, however, you might want to look at the website for The Association of Interventionist Specialists. Many interventionists are themselves recovering individuals with long term sobriety and are alcohol and/or drug counselors. This personal experience means that not only can they can relate to what the addict is going through, but they are also real life examples for what successful recovery looks like.

The hopeful outcome of a successful intervention, is that the addicted person will be willing to go to treatment and work on overcoming their addictions. If the person is truly ready to change and has the support of a caring individuals behind them, the chances for success are greatly increased.

Above all, if you, or someone you love and care about, is suffering with an addiction to alcohol or drugs, please do not hesitate to speak with an interventionist so you can begin the process of helping the addicted individual begin to recover and go on to lead a healthy and productive life.

If you would like to learn more about what treatment centers for alcoholism and drug addiction entail, please read Treatment Centers for Alcoholism FAQ.