7 steps to a successful intervention

7 STEPSSUCCESSFUL

INTERVENTION

to a

1 Hire an Interventionist

While not required, an interventionist can help plan the event and facilitate the discussion, reducing the stress on everyone involved.

An interventionist will have experience in these situations and help prepare everyone for any possible scenarios.

2 Choose the Attendees Carefully

Only those who care for the addicted person and who will not elicit overly negative responses from him/her should attend.

Remember, compassion is key.

3Set Clear Goals

An intervention should be focused on getting treatment for your addicted loved one.

Make sure everyone attending shares the same goal and is dedicated to succeeding.

4Organize Treatment Beforehand

Ideally, you will transport your loved one to treatment immediately after he/she says “yes” to getting help.

For this reason, it’s important to have plans for treatment before the intervention so there’s no delay or chance to back out.

5 Avoid Judgment

The best interventions are those where loved ones express concern without judgment or anger. It’s important to be honest while maintaining your composure and remaining calm.

Remember, this is a very difficult time for your loved one.

6 Communicate Consequences

Attendees need to decide on consequences you can all stick to if your loved one says “no.”

Be clear with the person suffering from addiction that he/she faces these consequences if treatment is refused.

Avoid Judgment

7Plan Follow-Up Meetings

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight and your loved one will need continued support throughout his/her recovery.

Schedule visits with your loved one during this time and offer ongoing encouragement and care. Showing that you are proud of his/her achievements can go a long way.

For more tips on how to hold a successful intervention and help your loved one get treatment, visit our page, What to Know Before Staging an Intervention.