Addiction and recovery professionals agree that there is nothing more effective than the persuasive power of family and friends to convince individuals to seek help. An intervention, a non-confrontational meeting in which the addict is forced to hear multiple direct testimonials from loved ones, is frequently used. Though painful for the addict to hear, honest, loving and respectful dialogue is the best approach for family intervention.

Involvement In Intervention

While the addict will typically deny use, the confluence of powerful testimonials directed at the addict will force the addict to see true evidence of the addiction. Consequently, there is a greater potential for success with stronger participation from family members and close friends, so family members, friends, and even colleagues should be considered for the intervention. Children should not be excluded: they often are affected and will have the most compelling testimonials. For those that live greater distances, participation can be by phone, letter, email, or even video conference.

Discussion Topics

Participants in the family intervention should freely speak their mind about the effects the addiction has had on their relationship with the addict as well as how it has affected their own lives. Details are critical — they help convey the reality of the situation. Each participant should discuss the anger, hurt, and worry they have felt as well as the love they feel for the addict. And, each participant should develop clear consequences directed at the addicted individual if he or she refuses to get treatment.

Discussion Goals

The main goal of intervention is to help the addict seek treatment for their addictions. If the addiction is serious, treatment needs to be pre-arranged, bags should be packed, and transportation should be available. Either way, the most effective family intervention involves taking the addict immediately to an addiction treatment facility.

Problems Encountered During Intervention

The family intervention is designed to provide the addict with direct insight into the effects of the addiction. It is also intended to remind the addict that family members and friends love him or her and want to help. However, as many participants may have conflicting emotions due to the addict’s erratic behavior, some may have a feeling of shame or anger along with the love and concern which could result in a deteriorating intervention.

A sustainable, non-confrontational meeting tone is essential. In fact, it is advisable to conduct at least one rehearsal prior to the meeting. Having a trial run can help family and friends overcome feelings of apprehension before the event.

Is Professional Help Needed?

In most cases, family and friends are able to manage the intervention preparation and proceedings without help.

However, when emotions are strong and family members are unable to organize and plan a non-confrontational intervention, professional help should be considered. Although expensive, there are numerous professional intervention services that organize interventions, run the rehearsals, direct meetings, select appropriate treatment facilities, and arrange for transportation to the treatment facility after the intervention.

Importance and Value of Family Intervention

Family intervention is one of the most loving and caring gestures a family can provide to a struggling addict. In most cases, intervention is the first step towards recovery. However, even if it does not work the first time, it plants a valuable seed in the mind of the addict and provides a sense of empowerment for the family members and close friends.