Interventions are typically seen as the initial step in treating an individual who is addicted to drugs or alcohol. They are typically pre-planned by loved ones, friends, or employers to help the individual seek professional help though a drug rehab program.
If the addict realizes that he has a problem and needs help, then family and friends can help him to find and enroll in the treatment he needs. However, sometimes addicts refuse to see their addiction as a negative aspect of their life. In these cases an intervention may be necessary to help the addict see the ways in which his addiction has hurt the people closest to him.
Employing the right kind of intervention can help the addict finally see his addiction negatively and seek professional treatment, and can also help friends and family heal from the effects of addiction as well. Interventions are typically an extremely emotional time for both the addict and loved ones, so employing a professional interventionist to help with it can ensure that the intervention is as effective as possible.
Different Types of Interventions
While the foundation and basis of an intervention may seem rather simple, there are numerous different approaches that can be taken depending on the addict’s personality, type of substance abuse, and those assisting with the intervention. After contacting a professional interventionist, a strategy will be put in place that gives the addict the best chance of success. Some of the most common or popular intervention types include:
Workplace Interventions
Workplace interventions are typically arranged by a fellow co-worker or employer and occur within the office, factory, or immediate work environment. In commercial environments, both drug and alcohol use can be highly prevalent, which can lead to devastating effects for co-workers and even affect the success of the business as a whole. Managers should implement specific policies to help staff spot drug and alcohol use. Because employees typically spend lengthy amounts of time together, they would be able to spot these troubling behaviors and bring this dangerous behavior to the manager’s attention.
In addition to the policy, employers should inform employees how an intervention works to help better the chances of its success. While it is important that fellow co-workers, managers, and directors are involved, it is best for a qualified specialist to assist with the intervention.
Crisis Interventions
Often times, an addict’s drug or alcohol use has become so risky that it creates extreme issues—including legal, health, emotional and financial issues—for the addict and his friends, family and coworkers. In these particular instances, a crisis intervention may be necessary to help the addict realize the extent of his addiction, as well as how it has negatively impacted numerous lives.
A crisis intervention is best when performed as soon as possible before the addict is able to harm himself or anyone else any further. During the intervention, these issues could be brought up to help convince the addict to seek treatment.
Family Interventions
Depending on the addict’s background and past relationships with loved ones, sometimes the best way to reach him is through a familiar setting while being surrounded by friends and family. Family interventions are aimed at lovingly explaining to the addict the reasons he needs treatment and the negative effects the addiction has had on his family members.
Emotions, especially anger and disappointment, should be eliminated during family intervention due to the fact that any negativity could push the addict further into addiction and cause him to deny treatment.
Youth Interventions
Although extremely similar to family interventions, youth interventions are designed specifically for young people due to the fact that treating teenagers can often be a far more delicate process when compared to treating adults. While the ultimate goal is to encourage the addict to enter treatment, the methods often vary from adult interventions due to differences in age, behavior, and attitude.
Johnson Model of Intervention
A more forceful approach to helping persuade one into seeking treatment is the Johnson model of intervention. During this intervention, an addict’s past actions are brought to the surface to help convince him to seek treatment. The primary belief during this intervention is that the addict must hit rock bottom before he is able to confront the reality and severity of his addiction. During this intervention, loved ones express their love for the addict while addressing numerous ways the addiction has negatively affected their lives.