Watching someone you love struggle with substance abuse can be heartbreaking. Many individuals in the grip of addiction refuse to acknowledge their problem, making it even harder for their loved ones to get them the help they need (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2022). However, a well-planned addiction intervention can serve as a powerful turning point in their journey toward recovery.
An intervention is a carefully structured conversation aimed at encouraging an individual to accept treatment for substance use disorder (SUD). It typically involves close family members, friends, or professionals who have a vested interest in the individual’s well-being (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 2023).
If you’re considering staging an intervention, follow these expert-backed tips to ensure a constructive, compassionate, and effective approach.
1. Select the Right People for the Intervention
Choosing who should participate in the intervention is crucial. Those involved should have a positive and meaningful relationship with the individual. Avoid including people who:
- Have strained or toxic relationships with the individual
- Tend to be overly emotional or confrontational
- Struggle with their own substance use issues
Remember, an intervention should provide support, motivation, and encouragement, not guilt or blame.
2. Pick a Neutral & Private Location
Holding an intervention at home can be risky, as it may trigger negative emotions or provide the individual with an easy escape route. Instead, consider a neutral yet private location such as:
- A therapist’s office
- A community center
- A local place of worship
A change in setting can reinforce the seriousness of the situation and help the individual feel less defensive (American Psychological Association [APA], 2021).
3. Choose the Right Time for the Intervention
Timing is everything when it comes to staging an intervention. Plan the meeting when the individual is most likely to be sober or clear-headed. For example:
- If they typically use substances in the morning, plan the intervention in the late afternoon or evening
- Avoid times of high stress or emotional distress
A sober state of mind makes them more receptive to the conversation (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
4. Structure the Order of Speakers
Planning who speaks and when can help maximize the intervention’s impact. Consider this strategic order:
- The person with the closest emotional bond (e.g., a parent or child) should speak first
- Friends and other family members can follow
- End with a significant figure (e.g., a spouse or life partner) who can reinforce the message
This sequence ensures a balance of emotional connection and logical reasoning.
5. Prepare and Rehearse What to Say
Each participant should write down their thoughts in advance to avoid emotional outbursts or off-topic discussions. When writing your script:
- Express love, concern, and support
- Use non-blaming language
- Focus on specific examples of how addiction has impacted the individual and others
Avoid using language that might trigger defensiveness or shame (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism [NIAAA], 2022). Rehearsing the script with other participants before the intervention is also highly recommended.
6. Stick to the Script & Avoid Emotional Detours
Once the intervention starts, stay on track. While emotions may run high, it’s important that participants:
- Follow their prepared statements
- Refrain from engaging in arguments
- Avoid reacting to anger or denial
Keeping the conversation calm and focused increases the chances of the individual accepting help.
7. Keep Emotions in Check
An individual struggling with addiction may respond with anger, denial, or sadness. Participants should:
- Avoid reacting with frustration or aggression
- Maintain calm and open body language
- Reassure the individual that they are loved and supported
Practicing emotional control can make the intervention more effective and less confrontational (APA, 2021).
8. Work With a Professional Interventionist
If you’re unsure how to handle an intervention, consider working with a professional interventionist. These experts:
- Provide guidance and strategies
- Help with intervention planning and execution
- Can recommend immediate treatment options
What Happens After an Intervention?
If the individual agrees to treatment, it’s important to have a plan in place for immediate transition into rehab. At Vanguard Behavioral Health, we offer comprehensive addiction treatment programs, including:
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders
- Rehabilitation Services in Albuquerque, NM, and Tucson, AZ
If they refuse help, stay supportive and continue offering resources. Sometimes, multiple interventions are necessary before an individual accepts treatment.
Final Thoughts
Staging an addiction intervention is a challenging but necessary step toward helping a loved one seek treatment. By carefully planning the event, sticking to prepared statements, and seeking professional guidance, you can increase the likelihood of success.
If you need support, reach out to Vanguard Behavioral Health today. Our team is here to help your loved one take their first step toward recovery.
References
- American Psychological Association. (2021). The role of family in addiction recovery. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Drug addiction: Symptoms and causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2022). Intervention strategies for alcohol use disorder. Retrieved from https://www.niaaa.nih.gov
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2023). How to help someone with a substance use disorder. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Family involvement in addiction treatment. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov
