Interventions are one of the best ways to encourage your loved one to take action and get the help they desperately need regarding addiction abuse. Family interventions are a great way to confront the individual and let them know how many people love and care about them. They’re a non-threatening tool to get the addict to agree to go to rehab. The main goal of an intervention is for the addict to listen and accept treatment. Before your family begins planning or staging an intervention, you’ll want to be aware of some common mistakes so you can help make sure the situation doesn’t spiral out of control. Here are 6 common mistakes families make that can sabotage the intervention:
Waiting Too Long
Many people believe they need to wait until their loved one has hit “rock bottom” before performing an intervention. However, it’s best to address the person as soon as you notice signs of problem behaviors. If you’re noticing odd behaviors such as stealing money, missing work, or hanging out with the wrong crowd, early action can help and they will likely be more open to listening to you. If you wait too long, they may be completely against rehab options.
Skipping the Rehearsal
Before you have the actual intervention, it’s important to stage a rehearsal ahead of time. Everyone who is invited will sit down and talk about what will be covered and the timeframe of the intervention. Details to discuss include who will talk, what will be said, treatment plans, how you’ll get your loved one to the intervention, and the best day/time to do it. Having all of the details worked out in advance will make for a much smoother intervention.
Not Inviting the Right People
Successful interventions require the people who matter most to be a part of it. Whoever’s opinions and feelings matter most to the addict should be present. Avoid having too many people, since it will come off as overwhelming. Focus on inviting the core people who respect and care about the addict the most. Having those people there will make the addict feel comfortable and loved, which is the overall goal.
Attacking the Addict
Interventions are emotionally charged events. It’s very easy for the situation to get out of hand if you aren’t properly prepared for it. If the intervention isn’t going well, it may be tempting to use a harsh tone or use keywords that may make your loved one feel directly attacked. Placing blame for situations or accusing them nonstop will make them shut down. Focus on how you feel about their current habits, talk about their well-being, their future, and express all of your genuine concerns. By focusing on how worried you are and how much you love them, you’re much more likely to get through to them.
Offering Too Many Rehab Options
Families may feel like they’re doing the addict a favor by offering options, but this usually ends up creating more stress and overwhelming feelings. Addicts typically aren’t capable of making major decisions while they’re under the influence, therefore the family should research options and choose the number one program suited for the addict.
Giving Them Money
If your loved one has (hopefully) accepted treatment at the end of the intervention, it might be tempting to send them on their way with money. Your loved one is in a very raw, vulnerable, and emotional state right now. Giving them money gives them an option to use, and in most cases, if they have the funds they will find a way to get their drug of choice. A lot can happen between now and the hours until rehab. If you must give them money, only give them enough to get them from where they are to the treatment facility.
If your loved one is struggling with an addiction, consider holding an intervention to help get them on the right path. You can help change their life and make their future that much brighter.
Prominence Treatment offers customized treatment plans to bring your loved ones back into a fulfilling sober lifestyle. Contact us today for more information, we’re ready to help.