Addiction affects everyone, not just the person misusing alcohol or substances. Anyone who has seen a loved one succumbing to substance use disorder knows how devastating it can be.
Families and friends often feel helpless, alone, and scared. Excessive alcohol or drug use concerns them—and rightly so. The best intentions can backfire, prolonging a loved one’s downward slide into denial, disengagement, and continuing substance dependence.
That’s where intervention rehab comes in—helping your family lead an effective intervention personalized to your loved one and the best first step in getting them the detox and rehabilitation they need to heal sooner.
Continue reading to learn more about intervention for addiction.
What is an intervention?
Addiction intervention services are highly organized events intended to persuade a loved one to pursue treatment for substance use disorder.
The intervention involves a group of people gathering to provide motivation and support.
Interventions are often the starting point. Our team is passionate about providing families of people with substance use disorders the help they need. You can determine the appropriate intervention method with the help of our supportive and knowledgeable counselors.
We offer a variety of highly regarded intervention services to families in need. The Beach House team achieves successful outcomes by delivering the following:
- Dedicated assistance for families
Beach House admissions counselors are here to assist families in planning an intervention and getting a loved one into treatment. Our professionals are also well acquainted with Florida laws that can facilitate families’ attempts to get help for their loved ones.
- A robust network of addiction specialists
We can provide referrals to trained interventionists and sober escorts through our national network of contacts. Our ongoing support helps families navigate the intervention and treatment process more easily.
- Evidence-backed treatment programs
We offer the latest treatment innovations, including bio-bed sound therapy, gender-specific treatment, and dual-diagnosis therapies. Our treatment programs address the underlying causes of substance use disorder and provide a solid foundation for recovery.
How Should I Prepare for an Intervention?
Preparing for an intervention for addiction is a delicate and challenging process. It involves confronting someone about their negative behaviors and encouraging them to seek help, even when they may not feel ready.
If you’ve decided that an intervention is right for a loved one struggling with addiction, mental health issues, or other harmful behaviors, some steps you can take to prepare include:
- Researching the specific issue your loved one is facing, such as addiction or mental health disorders, to better understand their condition, treatment options, and potential consequences
- Seek advice from intervention specialists for addiction, therapists, or support groups for guidance on approaching the situation
- Create a list of concerned and supportive individuals who can accompany you during intervention rehab
- Decide on the intervention’s date, time, and location. Choose a neutral, private, and comfortable setting where the person will feel safe and respected
- Determine the order in which each person will speak and rehearse what they want to say. Keep the messages focused on expressing love, concern, and a desire for the person to seek help
- Anticipate possible reactions and prepare responses. Be ready for resistance, anger, or denial
- Clearly define the boundaries and consequences if the person refuses to seek treatment
During the intervention, remain calm, empathetic, and non-judgmental. Focus on expressing your love and concern rather than blame or criticism. Avoid confrontational or aggressive language and stay focused on getting the person to accept help.
After the intervention, offer ongoing support whether or not they agree to seek treatment. Be there to encourage, understand, and assist in accessing the agreed-upon treatment plan.
Remember that interventions can be emotionally charged and challenging, so it’s crucial to approach them with sensitivity, empathy, and a focus on the person’s well-being.
Be prepared for different outcomes, as the individual may not always agree to seek help immediately. Still, your efforts can plant a seed of change and encourage them to reconsider professional care soon.
How To Start an Intervention
Starting an intervention is critical in helping a loved one address their destructive behaviors and accept professional help from addiction intervention specialists.
It is essential to begin the intervention by creating an atmosphere of love, empathy, and genuine concern for the individual. Start with heartfelt words that convey your care and affection. This sets a compassionate tone for the conversation and emphasizes that your intentions are rooted in their well-being, not as a personal attack on their character.
The heart of the intervention lies in the personal statements made by each person in attendance. Encourage everyone to take turns sharing their observations, feelings, and concerns. Share specific examples of how the individual’s behavior has affected you and others. Emphasize that these observations come from a place of love and not judgment.
After everyone shares their concerns, transition to discussing available treatment options. Be prepared with information about treatment programs, therapy options, support groups, and healthcare professionals.
Who Should Be Present?
When planning an intervention, it’s essential to carefully select the individuals who should be present. While having a supportive team is essential, a smaller group is most effective. Aim for around 4 to 8 people, including the addiction intervention specialist.
People you should consider include
- Close family members, such as parents, siblings, children, or spouses
- Friends who have a strong, supportive relationship with the individual
- A professional interventionist
- Treatment specialists, addiction therapists, or counselors
- Key supportive figures such as teachers, mentors, or clergy members
Be cautious about inviting individuals who may contribute to tension or conflict during the intervention. This includes people who have strained relationships with the individual or those who may have enabled their destructive behavior.
If there are concerns about the individual’s potential for violence or aggressive behavior, consult with professionals, such as law enforcement or mental health crisis teams, and ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place.
No matter who you choose, stress the importance of confidentiality among the intervention team. Make it clear that what is discussed during the intervention should not be shared with others without the individual’s consent.
The goal of an intervention is to provide support and encouragement for the individual to seek help willingly. The presence of individuals who genuinely care about their well-being and are prepared to offer support can make a significant difference in the person’s decision.
What Does a Successful Intervention for Addiction Look Like?
A successful intervention is one in which the individual accepts help and immediately commits to treatment for the best interest of their recovery journey.
Other factors often include
- Understanding and acknowledging their condition and its negative effect on themselves and others
- Expressions of gratitude toward the intervention team for their support and concern, even if they initially reacted with resistance
- Agreement to boundaries and consequences
- Improved communication between the individual and their loved ones
- The start of complete family healing
- An intervention team that remains actively involved in the person’s recovery journey, providing ongoing support, encouragement, and treatment assistance
- Sustained recovery
What if My Loved One Refuses Rehab Intervention?
When your loved one refuses intervention rehab, it can be disheartening. However, it is crucial to respect their autonomy and right to decide about their own life.
While immediate treatment may not be an option for them right now, you can continue supporting them by
- Maintaining open communication and letting them know you are available to talk whenever they are ready to discuss their substance use disorder or treatment options
- Educating them about addiction and available treatment options, as misconceptions or lack of awareness may contribute to their resistance
- Seek professional guidance from therapists, counselors, or addiction specialists who can offer strategies for engaging with resistant individuals
- Setting healthy boundaries to protect your well-being
If their addiction poses a deadly threat to themselves or the safety of others, explore legal options such as court-ordered treatment or involuntary commitment.
Remember that if your loved one refuses treatment, you have not failed them. Recovery is a personal journey, and individuals must reach a readiness point before fully committing to treatment.
Effective Addiction Intervention Rehab You Can Trust
Your loved one doesn’t have to live in active addiction forever. Addiction intervention services in Florida may be the best first step in getting them the treatment they need and deserve to kick-start their road to recovery.
Beach House Center for Recovery offers free intervention consultations to help families like yours understand the intervention process.
If you have a loved one with an unmanaged alcohol or substance use disorder, don’t hesitate to contact our compassionate admissions counselors today. We are here for you every step of the way.