More About Intervention
The greatest problem with addicts is that they usually do not know they are out of control. They look around and make comparisons, with other abusers, and argue that they are normal. These people need honest and objective feedback on their behavior. Motivation of a skilled counselor and the support of family and friends can help the individual realise their situation.
Many believe that an addict can only get better if they are self-motivated to change. This is an outdated and potentially lethal idea. A skilled professional can motivate an abuser towards recovery at any stage of an addiction. In fact, intervention is the best way to provide help to those struggling with addiction. It is a non-judgmental, non-critical, systematic process, which makes an addict come to terms with the impact of his alcoholism or drug use on others.
If the intervention is done by those that the addict trusts, it has a greater chance of being successful. This can be a family member, a close friend, or anyone concerned enough to help the addict. A professional counselor with experience with addiction and conducting interventions can play an effective role in the intervention. At a meeting in the presence of a counselor, the family members and or friends can express their concerns about the addict and his/her behavior.
Conducting an intervention is a complicated and delicate matter. Addicts are in a special kind of mental state and trust no one. They believe that the whole world is against them. As a result they may feel cornered and become more defensive. This makes the determination of a proper strategy and timing for intervention essential. The presence of a professional counselor is important.
Is Intervention Necessary?
There are many people who are under the mistaken belief that no intervention can be successful in the long run, because most addicts can't be helped until they are ready to reach out for help on their own. In fact, only a small percentage of substance abusers recover without intervention. In fact, intervention is an indispensable part of the healing process. Addicts often use 'denial' as their defense mechanism. Conceit and ego also play their parts in denying addiction. Breaking this defense is the first step in the process of intervention. It is imperative that intervention be done safely and with confidentiality. The advice and counsel of an experienced, trained, and professional speciatlist are essential. The interventionist must be knowledgeable in the right approach or treatment methodology and must be able work in cooperation with the family of the addict.
The Correct Time for Intervention
What is the right time for an intervention? The answer is obvious as soon as an alcohol, drug or other addiction problem has been identified. Consultation with a treatment professional or intervention specialist will help you determine whether the addict needs an intervention. Professional intervention is not a choice for everyone and every situation. As most cases do not require a full intervention, this consultation is important.
The process of intervention can be as long as several weeks to as short as one day. If the situation does not demand an immediate action, more planning is always encouraged.
The Role of Family and Friends
The role the family and friends of an addict have to play in intervention is vital. Even when they are tired of trying various attempts to control the behavior of the addict, family members tend to protect him/her from the consequences. Stopping such rescue measures is an important part of intervention. The addict needs to fully experience the harmful effects of addiction.
Try to find strength in numbers with the help of family and friends and confront the abuser as a group. But, be careful with the words. Assigning one person to talk with the abuser will be much more effective than everyone trying to talk at once.
Should you need assistance or advice on planning an intervention please do not hesitate to contact Life Works on 0800 081 0700 and we will be pleased to discuss your particular situation and offer clear and unbiased feedback.
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