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Define Intervention

You are concerned about a loved one’s behavior and are not sure what to do. If you think they may have an issue with substance abuse or are struggling with a mental health problem, you and your family members might consider an intervention. A Texas intervention specialist can help you and your loved ones as you learn more about how to define intervention and its benefits.

Need For an Intervention

There are a number of circumstances that might prompt you and your family to plan an intervention for a loved one. You may notice signs of substance abuse that indicate an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Perhaps you’ve noticed that your loved one seems to have a compulsive eating issue or has a gambling problem. There may also be issues with mental health, such as depression or anxiety, that are affecting the individual’s life.

How to Define Intervention

The most important thing to understand about an intervention is that it is not an argument. An intervention is a positive interaction in which you have a calm conversation with your loved one about their concerning behavior. The session gives you an opportunity to tell the person in your own words how their actions affect not only their own life, but yours as well.

Research and Preparation

Another key to a successful intervention is planning and preparation. You and your family members will need to do some research prior to holding the session. Learn as much as you can about their addiction or mental health issue so you can better understand their behavior. A professional Texas intervention specialist can help you learn more about mental health, addiction, and recovery. This will give you the background you need to have a constructive conversation with the individual in your life who needs help.

You will also need to research treatment options. If your loved one agrees to get the help they need, you should be prepared with information about a treatment center they can reach out to immediately. Again, your professional Texas intervention specialist can help you prepare by learning more about appropriate treatment options, availability, and financial considerations.

Who Should Be Involved?

When planning an intervention, it’s important to understand which members of your loved one’s circle should – and should not – be involved. Supportive friends and family members should be included and should be properly prepared with an understanding of how to define intervention. They should understand that they are not making accusations or placing blame but are having a constructive conversation to point out the effects of the individual’s behavior.

Do not include anyone who may have an antagonistic relationship with your loved one. Also do not include friends or family members who abuse drugs or alcohol or who have unmanaged mental health issues themselves.

Prepare Consequences

An intervention is an opportunity to share your concerns and to reflect on how your loved one’s behavior affects their life as well as yours. When the time comes during the meeting to convince the individual to seek treatment, you will need to be prepared with consequences if they refuse to get help. These consequences should not be viewed as a punishment. They are a realistic result of what will happen if your loved one does not get the treatment they need.

One of the more challenging aspects of an intervention is being prepared to stand firm with the consequences you’ve laid out. For example, you might have to tell your loved one that you will no longer allow them to live with you or drive your car if they don’t seek treatment. Consequences have to be meaningful and firm to be effective. You cannot back down until your loved one seeks the help they need.

Your Goals for an Intervention

It is helpful to focus on the goals of your intervention as you prepare and as you conduct the meeting. Remember that you are trying to help your loved one, not just express your frustrations or opinions. Your goals should be to raise awareness on the individual’s part about how their addiction or mental health issues affect themselves and those around them.

Your goals include motivating your loved one to get the help they need so they can live a healthier life. To that end, you will present them with a solid plan for treatment and recovery. A Texas intervention specialist can help you develop and present that plan factually and calmly for a more successful intervention session.

CONTACT A PROFESSIONAL INTERVENTION PROVIDER FOR HELP

At Whitman Recovery Service, our experienced intervention experts will help you plan a family intervention for your loved one, guiding your family through the process of getting them back on the right track. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we also provide telehealth services for your health and safety. Please call (210) 291-0278 if you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or mental illness. Our team has the expertise to help your family begin the journey of recovery.