Alcoholism Intervention Tips
Having an intervention for a loved one struggling with alcoholism can be a daunting prospect. However, holding one can potentially save the addict’s life. An intervention is an effective way to show the addict all of the ways in which their alcoholism has affected those they love. It can also show them that they are not alone in this journey and that they have a support group that is ready to help.
Are you holding an intervention for someone you love? Our alcohol detox experts at our Florida rehab center has created this guide on alcoholism intervention tips to help you through this difficult process. Knowing how to deal with an addict during an intervention will get you one step closer to getting them sober.
Tips for A Successful Alcoholism Intervention
When someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, it can make you feel helpless. You want to do whatever you can to get them sober, but where do you even begin? Regardless of the addict’s severity or situation, the best thing you can do to support them is to hold an intervention. Below are a handful of tips to keep in mind for a successful intervention.
Choose Who Will Attend Thoughtfully
One of the first steps to planning an intervention for alcoholism is choosing who will be in attendance. An intervention should not be a confrontational environment. The purpose is to show the alcoholic that they are loved, supported and that they need treatment for their alcohol addiction. An individual should not be invited if they have built-up anger or hostility towards the addict. For professional guidance, consider inviting an interventionist to lead the discussion.
Have a Detailed Plan
While you may be eager to have the intervention and get your loved one the help they need, it’s important to be prepared. Before holding the intervention, consider when and where it will take place, who will attend, what each person attending will say, what the addiction treatment options are, and more. An intervention can be a pivotal moment and you will want to be as prepared as possible.
Pick a Time When They Are Sober
If you’re planning an intervention for an alcoholic, it’s best to try to do it when they’re sober. When your loved one is intoxicated, they may be less receptive to the information and surroundings of the intervention and less likely to seek treatment for their alcohol use disorder.
Prepare For The Worst
When you’re having an intervention for a loved one, you always want to stay positive and hope for the best. With that being said, anything can happen and you’ll want to be prepared if things don’t go as planned. A few common circumstances that may occur can include:
- Your loved one is angry and in denial about their addiction.
- Your loved one is unwilling to seek treatment, and you need to follow through on the consequences you outlined during the intervention.
- Your loved one becomes hostile and accusatory towards those at the intervention.
- Your loved one begins to lose control and becomes a threat to themselves or others.
While none of these scenarios may be positive, it is still important to be prepared and have a backup plan.
Engage a Professional Interventionist
Planning and guiding an intervention can be a stressful and taxing experience for a loved one, which is why it is highly recommended to get help from a professional interventionist. A professional intervention specialist will be well-versed on alcoholism and can bring an outsider’s perspective into the intervention, which allows you and other participants to focus on your personal contributions. They will also be able to educate your loved one on their alcohol treatment options if they agree to get help.
Wrapping Up
If you or a loved one are struggling with an alcohol use disorder, please know you are not alone. Our inpatient alcohol rehab center will help you change your life for the better and regain sobriety. Whether you are looking for a long-term residential treatment center or an outpatient program, Beach House Recovery can help. Call our rehab today to find the best treatment option for you or a loved one.
Sources:
American Addiction Centers. “The Step-by-Step Guide to Staging an Intervention.” Retrieved from https://americanaddictioncenters.org/intervention/guide.
Foundations Recovery Network. “10 Tips on Holding an Intervention.” Retrieved from https://www.dualdiagnosis.org/interventions/10-tips-on-holding-an-intervention/.
The Canyon. “5 Tips for a Successful Intervention.” Retrieved from https://thecanyonmalibu.com/drug-intervention/5-tips-successful-intervention/.