Intervention

An addiction intervention is held when a meeting of people concerned about the abuser's addiction and well-being gather to plan a strategy and offer assistance in the form of drug or alcohol treatment. The group has the goal of demonstrating the connection between substance abuse and the negative consequences being experienced by the abuser and those surrounding him or her. It's hoped the abuser makes the same connections and agrees to go for help to remedy the situation. It's recommended, no matter which addiction intervention model is chosen, to include a professional interventionist to help and guide the group.

A formal addiction intervention takes place under the guidance of a professional interventionist. An informal intervention are when loved ones meet and the abuser is invited to join and if present, influence him/her to enter treatment.

Different Intervention Models

Direct Confrontation

The group discusses addictive behaviors with the abuser, confronting him or her about its harmful effects and negative impacts drugs have made on everyone's lives. Group support is offered on the contingency the abuser is willing to enter treatment. The focus is on convincing the abuser to enter pre-arranged treatment. If the abuser refuses and tries to delay accepting, he or she is told no support system will be available. This strategy raises the "bottom", so the addict feels treatment is the only option or face addiction without support. This takes the problems and burdens of addiction off the group and puts it squarely on the shoulders of the addict.

Indirect Confrontation

The group meets without the addict present and seeks advice from the interventionist. The interventionist educates the group about coping with the abuser's addiction and how to avoid co-dependent behavior. Then, the abuser is invited, but the meetings continue whether the invitation is accepted or not. If the abuser refuses to attend, education for the group continues on how to treat the addict while protecting themselves from the harmful consequences of the continuing addiction.

Forcible Interventions

Forcible interventions end in forced confinement of the addict and treatment is mandatory. Court ordered treatment is one example. Another example is a family member signs paperwork to have the addict committed to a facility as the addict is a danger to himself or herself and/or others.

More Information about Intervention

If your loved one could benefit from an addiction intervention, call Drug Treatment Centers Phoenix for help and information.