Addiction can often leave people feeling helpless and desperate.
If someone you care about is struggling with addiction, jumping into action and trying to help them in any way possible can be tempting.
However, an intervention isn’t as simple as confronting the person and demanding change. A well-planned, personalized program is crucial for the success of any addiction intervention.
When staging an addiction intervention, certain actions must be avoided at all costs. Here are nine things you should never do during an addiction intervention.
1. Ambushing the Person with an Intervention
An intervention is meant to be a supportive and caring environment where individuals can openly discuss their addiction.
Ambushing them or launching a surprise intervention can heighten emotions, create resentment, and may result in them refusing help or getting defensive.
Ensure everyone involved is aware and prepared for the intervention ahead of time.
2. Holding the Intervention in a Public Place
Privacy is essential when confronting someone about their addiction. The last thing anyone needs is unwanted attention or additional stressors from outside influences.
Choose a private, comfortable setting that allows everyone to express themselves without scrutiny from strangers.
3. Conducting the Intervention When You’re Emotional
Feeling emotional about a loved one’s addiction is natural, but it’s crucial to remain as calm and composed as possible during an intervention.
Emotional outbursts can distract from the overall message and potentially damage relationships further. If necessary, practice what you want to say ahead of time to help you maintain clarity and focus on your goal.
4. Speaking Harshly or Accusingly
Harsh language or accusations will only create more barriers between you and your loved one.
Instead, focus on expressing your concerns and feelings with compassion using “I” statements such as “I feel worried when I see you drinking heavily.”
5. Not Having a Plan
Without a clear plan for treatment options or appropriate support, your loved one may not have much motivation to change.
Make sure to research and provide possible treatment options such as a personalized program, therapy sessions, or support groups to help facilitate the transition into recovery.
6. Focusing on Guilt or Shame
Instead of discussing the person’s mistakes or making them feel guilty about their past actions, concentrate on the potential for positive growth and change.
Emphasize hope and optimism for a brighter future rather than dwelling on past failures.
7. Using Ultimatums or Threats
Though attempting coercion through threats or ultimatums may be tempting, these tactics are ultimately counterproductive.
Such behaviors stoke animosity and push people away rather than encourage them to make positive life changes. Instead, aim for open communication that respects their autonomy.
8. Neglecting Follow-Up Actions
Asking someone struggling with addiction to commit to a treatment program is just the beginning.
It’s crucial to stay connected and involved throughout their recovery process. Failure to follow up or support them during this delicate period may result in relapse.
Show your continued love and encouragement by checking in regularly and offering support whenever needed.
9. Not Seeking Professional Assistance
Holding an intervention is a significant responsibility that requires careful preparation and understanding of addiction’s complexities. Consulting with a professional interventionist or addiction therapist can offer crucial guidance and support during this critical period.
A successful addiction intervention requires research, understanding, compassion, and determination.
By avoiding these pitfalls during an intervention, you’ll increase chances for a positive outcome toward recovery.