Discovering a family member or a friend is a substance abuser or an addict is never an easy process. Individuals may no longer recognize their loved one, who has been fully transformed into an erratic and unstable stranger as the result of short or long-term consumption of chemical substances. Sometimes, on a brighter note, these people can help the suffering addict take the road to recovery through a heartfelt discussion about the problem at hand. Other times, though, this process is not smooth, and additional help may be needed. At this point, the loved one, an entire family, or a group of friends may wish to stage an intervention to take more drastic, life-saving measures.
Simply put, an intervention is a carefully planned process in which a group of close friends or family members calmly yet strictly inform the addict about recovery options and treatment. Normally, this series of events has been preconceived with the assistance of a doctor, a therapist, a counselor, or (in the best case scenario) an intervention specialist. As part of the “intervention plan,” all parties involved may confront the addict about his/her aggressive behaviors, options for treatment, and provide emotional support.
Typically, individuals involved in an intervention can expect to follow these steps:
1. Creating a game plan: Consider how the addict will be approached and consult the specialist.
2. Collecting valuable information: Collect notes on addiction recovery and treatment options
3. Creating a team: Decide who will be involved in the intervention.
4. Creating a backup plan: Every individual needs to be prepared for negative consequences, such as an angry reaction from the addict.
5. Taking plenty of notes: Create a script for the intervention and decide who will approach the addict with specific pieces of information (e.g. recovery, treatment)
6. Instigation: Hold the intervention and plan for the aftermath.
Besides the routine steps of a classic intervention, individuals can also consider less rigorous options for intervention including drug counseling, group programs, or family counseling. Prior to holding an intervention, it is always important to consult a healthcare professional or a specialist about options for treatment.
Despite the intensity of the problem at hand, there is always a solution for addiction or abuse, if you know where to look. If you or a loved one suffers from addiction, you can get the help you need through Asana Recovery. Counselors and healthcare experts can walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and bring you one step closer to living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle and building a better future for yourself and your loved ones. While it might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way towards addiction recovery.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction or alcoholism today.
