Intervention

There really is hope for everyone, no matter how bad the situation seems. We know this because we’ve helped thousands of men and women overcome every kind of addiction, often through some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

An intervention is a step in addiction recovery that not everyone takes because not everyone needs one. If a loved one struggling with addiction wants help and is open to receiving it, there is no point in an intervention. If they’re denying an addiction that is visible to you, or their health is deteriorating, and they’re refusing treatment, an intervention may help move your loved one toward recovery.

The “how” can vary, but you can read the steps below or watch a webinar on ways to help your loved one find help.

Preparing For An Intervention

The three steps for a successful intervention are as follows:

Plan And Prepare.

Think of a group of people who care and have the maturity to participate. Confer with an addiction counselor. Understand everything you can about what your loved one is dealing with. This includes not only drug and alcohol use, but anything else you can learn about the people, settings, and conditions that might be contributing to the issue.

Rehearse And Discuss.

The people who will participate in person on the day of the intervention should meet to rehearse how the intervention will go. Take notes on what will be said, and be prepared to explain how the actions of the person battling addiction are harming you. Decide specific consequences for not accepting treatment, and set a date for the intervention.

Intervene.

It’s important to get the person for whom the intervention is happening to the site of the intervention without them knowing the intervention is happening. Once there, each member takes turns saying how the person’s addiction has affected them. The loved one is then presented with treatment options.

Knowing When It’s Time for an Intervention

It’s hard to know when someone is ready for an intervention, so a feeling of uncertainty is common among families seeking help.

The first step is a conversation. You can speak to an addiction counselor or even someone who specializes in interventions about what’s going on with your loved one. Every person is different.

There’s really no checklist to tell you when it’s time for an intervention, but there are skilled, knowledgeable, compassionate counselors who can partner with you to get your loved one exactly the kind of help they need.

How Do I Arrange for an Intervention?

Don’t attempt an intervention unless you have consulted with a professional. Conducting an intervention requires more than just common sense; it requires experience and knowledge of how people with addictions may respond to interventions.

Mn Adult & Teen Challenge does NOT conduct interventions. However, we work closely with interventionists to ensure a smooth process for your loved one into treatment.

For resources, call 612-FREEDOM.