The intervention process has been highly popularized by the A&E TV show. The awareness that it generated have made many people stop and take a closer look at the options when they have a loved one suffering from a substance abuse problem. Many know that addiction intervention is an option when it is clear that someone with a problem will not seek help on their own.
But what is really involved in an intervention?
The Intervention Process
According to the Agency for Healthcare Research Quality, a strong intervention process should include the following elements:
An effective addiction intervention involves both the loved ones of the addict, and an intervention professional that is used to guiding the process.
Asking refers to ascertaining the current status of the addict, in order to determine what they’re using, how often they’re using, and generally getting a feel for the severity of the addiction. This is information that can be relayed from family members to a treatment professional who will direct the process and determine the necessary course of treatment.
Advising is the part of the addiction intervention where addicts are encouraged to quit. Family members can be the most persuasive, and are typically asked to prepare a statement about why they would like to see the addict get help. Often, they will present consequences, indicating that they will no longer offer financial support or other assistance to the individual if he/she chooses not to enter into an addiction treatment program. The goal is to say or do whatever it takes to get someone through the doors of a drug and alcohol treatment program.
Assessing takes place after friends and family have had an opportunity to speak to the addict during the drug and alcohol intervention. The intervention specialist will gauge the reaction of the addict in order to determine if they are truly willing to commit themselves to the process, or if they have simply agreed because they want the addiction intervention to end.
Assisting is a necessary part of drug and alcohol intervention, as very few addicts will follow through on their own and get treatment. In many cases, the intervention specialist will pre-arrange the treatment plan before the addiction intervention actually takes place. This ensures that the addict is given no opportunity to back out, or stall. In many cases an addict will leave the drug and alcohol intervention and head straight to the treatment facility to begin the process.
Arranging is where the interventionist will follow up with family to ensure that they have abided by their part of the bargain, and that the addict has successfully entered into drug and alcohol treatment. After the intervention process has taken place, the stress families are under makes some level of support necessary.
Arranging an Intervention
The specific intervention process used depends upon the treatment specialist, and the individual circumstances of an addict. The process will always involve the above components in some way, but the above does not dictate a strict outline involved in addiction intervention. Contact Fort Lauderdale Addiction Treatment Center today to learn more about our intervention services, and what happens after the addiction intervention.