If you’re concerned about a loved one’s habits and believe that they may have an addiction, then it’s normal to have thoughts about an intervention. Holding an intervention can be extremely nerve-racking. In this blog, we’re letting you know how to stage an intervention for a loved one without pushing them away.
What is an intervention?
An intervention is a planned conversation between family members, friends or other relations. The goal of an intervention is to have an open, honest conversation and encourage support.
Without the right guidance, an intervention can feel confrontational, so it’s important to create a calm atmosphere where your loved one feels safe and comfortable. These conversations aren’t to force someone into having treatment, but to express that you may be concerned about them and that help is available.
There is no single approach that will work for every family. The right way to approach the conversation depends on the individual, their circumstances, and the nature of their substance use.
An intervention process can be used for gambling, prescription drugs or other drug or alcohol addiction.
When might an intervention be appropriate?
An intervention may be appropriate if you are noticing an increasing number of signs of addiction. In some cases, this can mean noticing changes in someone’s health, relationships, work or daily life.
If you’re concerned about a loved one, addressing your concerns sooner rather than later can help. However, taking time to prepare and seek professional guidance can make the conversation more constructive. Early intervention can help your loved one get the right treatment sooner.
Speak to an addiction professional first
If possible, consider speaking to an addiction professional before arranging an intervention. They can help you think through who should be involved, what to say, appropriate boundaries and what treatment options may be available.
Professional guidance can also help you decide whether an intervention fits your loved one’s circumstances and how to approach the conversation safely and supportively.
How to prepare for a successful intervention
Gather trusted people
The first stage of preparing for an intervention involves deciding whether you want to have the conversation alone or in a group. At this point, you may be the only one considering the conversation. In this case, it may help to open up to someone you trust about how you are feeling. This can make the conversation feel lighter for you, but make sure the person you are supporting also trusts them.
You may decide to involve a small group of people who are close to your loved one and are genuinely concerned about their wellbeing. Be cautious about involving too many people, as this can feel overwhelming or confrontational.
Make some agreements
You can keep offering support without taking responsibility for their recovery or protecting them from the consequences of their behaviour. This can include avoiding certain topics or agreeing to stop the conversation if needed. The idea is to keep the person you care about calm and supported, not judged.
Do some research into treatment options
Before you start the conversation, it’s good to have an idea of some treatment pathways. Treatment options will vary depending on the individual’s circumstances, the substance or behaviour involved and the level of support they need. It can be helpful to chat with a rehab centre before you have the conversation.
Find out what treatment options may be available and whether an assessment or medically supported detoxification may be appropriate. The need for detox will depend on the individual’s circumstances and should be assessed by a suitably qualified professional.
What to say and what to avoid during an addiction intervention
Knowing what to say can be tricky in this situation. The most important thing is to help your loved one feel listened to and understood, which may mean you don’t need to say much yourself.
- Always remain calm: Use respectful language, show compassion and care.
- Share examples: Your loved one may not see the damage certain behaviours cause so you can share this in a non-accusatory way. Talk about the action and the wider impact this may have on their life.
- Let them speak: Give them time to process what you said and respond. This may take time as they gather their thoughts. Remember that you have had time to prepare for this conversation, but they have not.
- Avoid blame, criticism or bringing unrelated past conflicts into the conversation: These approaches can make someone feel attacked and may make it harder to have an open discussion.
- Host in a private setting: This can help the person stay calm. Make sure other family members, such as children, aren’t around to keep the conversation focused.
- Prioritise safety: An intervention should never put you, your loved one or anyone else at risk. If there is a risk of violence, overdose, severe intoxication, serious withdrawal symptoms or another immediate danger, seek appropriate professional or emergency support rather than attempting an intervention yourself.
How to encourage treatment for your loved one’s addiction
Addiction treatment is an opportunity for your loved one to start their recovery journey with professional guidance and support. Throughout the process, and often beyond, an experienced team will help them identify triggers and find more appropriate ways to cope.
To encourage your loved one to seek support, it may help to have practical options ready, such as a conversation with a treatment provider. This shows them that you are serious about their recovery and reinforces your support. Read our blog on private rehab vs NHS rehab waiting times.
While you can do a lot to encourage them to seek support, they may not be ready immediately. Be patient and give them time to process what you are suggesting.
What if they do not want help
In some cases, your loved one may not be open to help and support. While this can be difficult to hear, you cannot force someone to accept treatment. You can, however, keep offering appropriate support while maintaining clear boundaries.
You may find it beneficial to speak to a rehab centre and ask them how you can continue offering support without enabling their addiction. It’s important to seek personalised advice on treatment options, as addictions need to be dealt with carefully, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery.
How can a private rehab centre help with a formal intervention?
A private rehab centre can help in many ways. First, they can offer personalised advice to loved ones concerned about addiction, helping you understand how to approach the conversation and set appropriate boundaries.
Private rehab centres may take a holistic approach to recovery, combining clinical treatment with therapeutic, wellbeing and practical support. Depending on their individual needs, this may include activities such as gym sessions and Reiki as part of a wider personalised programme at Acquiesce.
After rehabilitation, Acquiesce offers an excellent aftercare programme, where clients receive a contact number they can use anytime and access to our members’ area. This area gives them a chance to speak with others who have been through similar experiences, so they can share wins and discuss challenges.
At Acquiesce, we pride ourselves on confidential, personalised support for individuals and their families.
We understand that interventions can be extremely challenging for loved ones and the individuals involved. It’s vital to show compassion, research available options, and seek professional help when needed. By following these steps, you can help to make the conversation constructive and useful. Some people also find it helpful to host a rehearsal intervention, allowing them to practice guidance from an addiction professional. Read our blog on finding the right rehab centre.
If you’re concerned about a loved one’s alcohol, drug or gambling use, you don’t have to navigate the situation alone. The team at Acquiesce can provide confidential advice on how to approach the conversation, set healthy boundaries and explore appropriate treatment options. Contact Acquiesce today for confidential advice and guidance.
