How to Perform a Drug Intervention

By janice

Having to stage a drug alcohol intervention is hard on everyone involved; however, it is something that must be done for the good of the addict as well the family. While the intervention is important, there are several steps that are vital to the success of the intervention that need to be taken first.
It is important to have a pre-intervention meeting in which you gather everyone who will be involved (family, friends, peers) and establish the roles each person will play; who will speak and what will they say and who will be there for support; especially emotionally. The key is to have a plan so everyone knows their role and the intervention will go as smoothly as possible. The more planning the better.
The second step before the intervention is to have a plan for recovery; research rehab and treatment centers to find one that will be a good fit and appeal to your loved one. If the treatment center does not sound appealing or positive, they won’t want to go. Many treatment centers will even allow you to set everything up in advance so that you all you have to do is call once your loved one is ready to seek help. It is important to have this done before the intervention so your loved one knows that there is another option.
Once you have a plan for the intervention and for the recovery process, it is important to have the intervention as soon as possible – there is no good time. Be loving in your approach and don’t make them feel cornered or attacked. While the goal of the intervention is get your loved to seek help, realize that is must also be self-motivated. The role of family and friends is to help them see their need for help and then provide strong, loving support as they begin this difficult journey of recovery.