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Family Intervention

The word “intervention” may conjure up mental images of a dramatic, surprise confrontation with a loved one who needs to seek help for their mental health or substance abuse problems. While TV depictions of interventions often make them seem unrehearsed, the reality is that successful interventions require careful planning. What variables should you consider if you’re thinking about orchestrating a family intervention? 

1. Location

The intervention’s location is a critical factor in achieving your ideal outcome. Choose somewhere safe and private, like a family member’s home, but make sure it’s not a place where your loved one can easily get up and leave if they refuse to hear what you have to say.

2. Write and Rehearse Your Comments

While you might prefer the idea of speaking from the heart, winging it isn’t a helpful approach to a successful family intervention. To make your point concisely and without going off-topic, you and every other person in the family intervention should prepare written remarks. When emotions are running high, it can be challenging to communicate your feelings. Sticking to a script will prevent you from getting overwhelmed when it’s your turn to speak.

Without blaming or shaming, provide specific examples of your family member’s harmful behavior. Reiterate that you still love them and believe they deserve health and happiness. To ensure your loved one does not feel personally attacked, use “I” statements, instead of “you” phrasing.

3. Employ an Interventionist

Even a well-planned intervention can quickly become a heated family argument. To avoid this unproductive turn, consider hiring a professional interventionist. This person’s role is to recommend the best type of family intervention for your circumstances. They are also a neutral third party who can bring everyone back on the same page if things start heading in the wrong direction, guiding your family to the ideal resolution.

4. Choose a Treatment Facility

The final crucial consideration in staging a successful family intervention is to research recovery facilities and find one whose treatment philosophy aligns with your loved one’s needs. Various programs offer different amenities, approaches and support that might be a better match for their interests. Look for an accredited treatment center that offers a comprehensive continuum of care.

If your loved one agrees to seek help, seize the opportunity. Give them the good news that you’ve already found a facility where they can start their road to healing.

Professional Family Intervention Services

Denial is a leading characteristic of addiction and mental illness, and an intervention can be the best way to help your loved one accept that they have a severe problem they can’t overcome on their own. If the meeting is successful, you can persuade a family member struggling with substance abuse or mental health to enroll in a qualified treatment facility and regain control of their future. 

With our 98% success rate and thousands of interventions conducted nationwide, Whitman Recovery Service is ready to partner with your family. When you’re ready to talk, reach out to us today.