Why You Should Stage an Intervention for Your Loved One with Addiction
Staging an Intervention
If you suspect that a loved one may have a substance abuse problem; there is no time to waste. There are innumerable mental and physical risks associated with unchecked alcohol and drug abuse. The most immediately concerning is the potential for a fatal overdose.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) changes caused by repeated drug or alcohol use are visible in brain imaging scans of people with an addiction. These changes typically impair neurological functions relative to rational thinking and self-control. This can make it difficult for an addicted person to seek help on their own.
Statistically, approximately 50% of those in need of treatment for addiction deny that they have a problem with drugs and/or alcohol. In many instances, even when the addicted person is ready to stop the abuse, they can find it hard to quit. Failure to understand the dynamics of this reality often cause families to wait too long to address the problem. It also explains why interventions can lead to treatment and the recovery process.
While interventions are not always necessary, they have the power to…
- Remove the secrecy that shrouds the addiction.
- Address any denial regarding the pattern of abuse.
- Help the addicted person to recognize the impact of their drug or alcohol abuse on themselves and others.
- Emphasize the importance of getting into a treatment program.
- Provide other family members with an open forum to address their concerns relative to how the addiction is impacting their lives.
Despite the potential benefits of an intervention, family members are often filled with apprehension about conducting one. Primarily because it can be an emotionally charged event. Although friends and family may be apprehensive about confronting the issue of addiction, studies show a 95% admission rate for treatment following a family staged drug intervention. In fact, it has been recognized as one of the leading ways to get people with full-blown addiction into rehabilitation programs.
Interventions, however, should be carefully planned and properly executed. Some of the most important elements of a successful intervention include:
- Choosing the best time and place for the event.
- Preparing family members and friends for participating in the intervention.
- Establishing guidelines on how negative reactions or strong resistance from the person in addiction should be handled.
- Predetermining consequences if the individual refuses to accept help.
- Making prior arrangement for admission into a treatment center immediately following the event.
The greatest benefit of an alcohol or drug intervention is that it presents an opportunity for the addicted person to start the journey towards recovery with the full support of their loved ones.
Drug Treatment Center West Palm Beach
Ebb Tide Treatment Centers
At Ebb Tide Treatment Centers, we believe alcoholics and addicts can and do recover. Recovering from active addiction (Substance Abuse Disorder) does not have to be a long, painful process. With the help of Ebb Tide’s caring and experienced staff, you and your loved ones will learn, and take proven steps necessary to achieve success by maintaining lasting sobriety. The goal of Ebb Tide Treatment Centers is to restore lives and families. With our help, you can regain control of your life from addiction and start living happily again. Your new life is just a phone call away. Call us today at 561-508-8330 or visit our website.
Ebb Tide Treatment Center
400 Executive Center Dr. Suite 209
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
561-508-8330
Sources:
- https://www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/treatment/what-to-do-if-your-adult-friend-or-loved-one-has-problem-drugs
- https://www.bhpalmbeach.com/recovery-articles/success-rates-addiction-interventions-are-higher-professional-interventionists/