A drug addiction intervention is often portrayed as a single event organized by loved ones to help someone. This may work for some families, but intervention can also take place through several conversations over time. And a drug addiction intervention can also mean treatment itself, like family-based interventions that are often to both prevent and treat substance misuse. No matter the meaning, intervention help is part of the recovery process. We’ll review some tips for having a direct and loving conversation with someone about addiction.
Pick the right place and time for your family drug intervention
Substance misuse is a distressing topic to talk about, and choosing a time and place with fewer distractions can make the conversation easier. You want them to focus on what you’re saying instead of everything around them. These tips can help you create a supportive environment for drug addiction intervention.
- Look for a space where your loved one would feel comfortable. A tiny or crowded room may trigger anxiety. And for some, wide-open spaces can feel overwhelming. Consider something with an easy way out so that they don’t feel trapped.
- Privacy is essential when talking about substance misuse. Your loved one may become emotional or feel like they’ve been caught off guard, even if you’re gentle with your approach. You can’t control their reaction, but choosing a private location for the family drug intervention can help them feel less exposed.
- Consider a better time of day for your loved one. Talking about substance misuse will be tough no matter when it occurs. But try to avoid times when they’re likely to be exhausted or stressed.
Be direct and firm during the drug intervention while showing love
Addiction is a hard subject to broach. It’s understandable to feel angry or hurt by your loved one’s actions, and it’s tempting to take out your frustrations on them while they’re sitting in front of you. But showing your anger during this conversation may push them away. Go in with a plan to avoid losing track of the conversation. Your loved one may try to change the subject or get distracted, so it’s vital to come in prepared. Be direct and state firm boundaries about money, behaviors or other issues. Addiction issues can trigger strong emotions, so be sure that anyone participating in a drug addiction intervention can stay on an even keel. If someone feels like they may be easily upset by the conversation, they may not be ready to participate. Staying calm is essential for interventions to be helpful. Give your loved one time and space to talk. Listen to them and recognize their feelings, even if they don’t make sense to you. Try to learn and understand where they’re coming from so you can develop trust. The more they open up, the more likely they are to move toward getting treatment.
Offer to help
People struggling with addiction often feel ashamed and unworthy of support. Your compassion and help can make a difference. Addiction is much like other chronic health conditions, requiring a long-term approach for care. Offer to help in practical ways during the drug addiction intervention that saves your loved one time and energy. Research treatment options, set appointments, and offer to drive them to treatment sessions when you can. People feel more in control when they can make their own choices, so do what you can to help your loved one consider more than one path toward recovery.
If you still aren’t sure what to do, get drug addiction intervention help
Addiction professionals can offer advice on having a serious talk about addiction. They can provide information about treatment and what may happen if your loved one doesn’t seek help. And if your intervention becomes a crisis, a professional can provide support and guidance. To speak to someone today about a family drug intervention, contact the outpatient treatment in Nashville P.A.T.H. or the outpatient treatment in Worcester P.A.T.H. facilities at 1-713-528-3709. We’re here to help.