Performing an Intervention: Utilizing Various Intervention Services and Working with an Alcohol and Drug Interventionist

When to Use an Intervention

A key feature of drug addiction and alcohol abuse is denial. No one likes to admit his or her weaknesses. No one likes to acknowledge that they have lost control. No one wants to recognize and deal with a serious personal problem. It is easier to pretend everything is fine. It is easier to act in control. It is easier to deny that a problem even exists. Because denial is such a common component of addiction, overcoming drug addiction and/or alcoholism becomes extremely difficult. In order to recover, an individual must recognize that the problem exists, and has begun to take over their life. Acknowledging this fact can be very difficult and for some, impossible to do alone. This is where an intervention comes in handy. Family members and friends of an individual suffering from drug addiction and/or alcoholism can work with the individual to confront the realities of their addiction, and to escape denial. Having this support network will make the entire process less overwhelming for the individual and will provide them with a foundation upon which they can recover.

Working with an Alcohol and Drug Interventionist

Because the process of intervening can be difficult and overwhelming, it is recommended that families and friends consider working with an alcohol and drug interventionist. Together, you can develop a plan of action and map out exactly how you want the intervention to go. An intervention specialist understands the ins and outs of the intervention process and has likely been a part of many interventions, both unsuccessful and successful. The knowledge they can provide will make the intervention process more likely to be successful. Facilitation of the intervention in a structured manner, with the encouragement from family and friends gives the individual a platform to recover on.

Intervention Services

Research various intervention services before deciding exactly how to approach the intervention. The process must be approached in a calm and relaxed manner, however, do not wait until it is too late.