Staging an intervention is not as simple as sitting down with your loved one and letting them know they need to get help for their alcohol or substance use problem. Instead, specific steps should be followed to ensure the loved one is not pushed further away. 

Identify the Problem: 

The first step in staging an intervention is to identify and acknowledge the problem with alcohol or drug abuse. This includes noting any changes in behavior, relationships, physical health, job performance, financial situation, etc. 

Gather a Support Group: 

Now it is time to assemble a support group that can help facilitate the intervention process and get the person into treatment. This can include friends, family members, and professionals such as addiction interventionists, counselors, and therapists. It is essential to choose people who understand addiction well enough to be able to help the loved one. 

Plan Ahead: 

Before beginning an intervention, it is essential for those involved to plan ahead and decide what will be discussed during the session. It is also important to set ground rules so that everyone remains respectful throughout the discussion while addressing all relevant issues related to substance use, including potential consequences if treatment is not sought. 

Use an Interventionist: 

Using a professional interventionist can make all of these steps much easier. They have experience dealing with these types of conversations regularly and remain neutral throughout the discussion to prevent things from escalating into arguments or emotional outbursts that could derail the progress made toward convincing someone they need help for their substance use. 

Make a Treatment Plan: 

If the intervention is successful, it is crucial for those involved and their interventionist to agree on follow-up plans and establish short-term goals for starting rehab treatment. Doing this once the person admits they want help ensures everyone understands their role in helping their loved one take the first steps to recovery. 

The cost of an intervention will vary depending on the type and length of the intervention and any additional services that may be provided. Generally, interventions can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the complexity of the situation. 

Some insurance companies may cover the cost of interventions if it is deemed medically necessary for a person’s treatment. Therefore, it is best to contact your insurance provider or the recovery center to determine addiction treatment and intervention services coverage.

If an intervention does not work, it is vital to remember you should not give up hope. Your loved one may still come around in time. Meanwhile, family support options are available to provide you and your family with the help they need. 

It can also be beneficial to join a support group for family members of addicts, participate in individual and family counseling, continue to educate yourself about addiction, and learn how to set boundaries with consequences without enabling your loved one. Most importantly, you and your family must put their physical and mental health and well-being first.