An intervention is a group of family members and close
friends coming together to ask a loved one to get help with a substance abuse
problem. Parenting is difficult enough,
but having to do family intervention parenting is probably going to be one of
the hardest things you will ever do. Having the support and strength of all
loved ones in confronting the addict is necessary during this process. Often
times an addicted person does not see the negative effects addiction is having
in their life or yours. Meeting them head on with a united front during a drug
intervention may help them see their destructive path.
It is important to know how to do a family drug
intervention properly for it to be successful. Most addicts, even if they seem
ready to give up their addiction, will be very resistant to receiving help and
resentful of their addiction being brought out in the open. It is very
important for all family members to be ready and able to confront the addicted
individual with specific ways that drugs are destroying their life and the
lives of the people around them. Having a clear-cut prearranged treatment plan
and goals put into place before the drug intervention is very important. Also
discussing beforehand what each person is prepared to do if the addict refuses
treatment is a necessity. A person being confronted with addiction is going to
be in denial and try every way to manipulate all those involved with the drug
intervention to convince them that they don't need help. It is best to have a
professional who is knowledgeable in drug and alcohol intervention strategies,
involved in all parts of the intervention. This person can act as a buffer or
neutral party, when conflicts arise and help the addict to see the destructive
path they are taking. This professional can also help you find the best
treatment center for your loved one.
If a family member is accepting of the drug
intervention and is willing to go into treatment they will need you support.
Offer to go to therapy with them and help them to rearrange their lives to
remove as many possible temptations to relapse as possible. No one is perfect
so be prepared for relapse, at any time during the road to recovery. Be
supportive of your loved one if a relapse does occur, help them to pick
themselves up and try again.