Reality TV shows may be giving us a distorted perception about holding an intervention for a loved one. Why? First of all, we must remember that any television program will focus on graphic and disturbing images because they want to create maximum shock, drama, and entertainment. It’s all about ratings. So, expecting a realistic portrayal can cause unfortunate misconceptions about intervention.
Of course, if you’ve watched one of those programs, you probably wondered what happened after the person was whisked off to rehab. Did they complete the treatment? Did they succeed in remaining sober long after? Those questions are never answered by the TV show. So, you aren’t getting an accurate account of the benefits or downsides of staging an intervention.
With these things in mind, let’s take a look at how to conduct a realistic and effective intervention. When conducted properly, an intervention most likely won’t erupt into the drama-fest you see on television interventions.
Misconceptions About Intervention - Looking With a Realistic Viewpoint
In most cases, it’s best to seek the advice or participation of a professional interventionist to ensure that things go smoothly. These individuals are trained and experienced to prevent any confrontations that may become physically threatening.
Unfortunately, even with the most thought-out or expertly-planned intervention, things can go wrong. So, here are some suggestions for ensuring a successful outcome.
Part of planning an intervention includes setting boundaries and expectations. Letting the individual know exactly what they can expect if he or she resists going to rehab is vital. This could involve the following:
– Let the person know you are aware of their problem.
Many people with substance abuse disorders delude themselves into believing that no one knows about their drug abuse. Sadly, they take pride in thinking they’ve been creative enough to hide their problem from friends or loved ones. They need to realize it’s no longer their own little secret.
– Inform the individual that you will no longer be an enabler.
Maybe you’ve been giving the person money, providing a home, paying the bills, or meeting other demands. In this way, you’ve been making it easy for them to continue their drug abuse. It’s time to let the person know you will no longer fund their habit.
– Avoid making threats or issuing ultimatums.
No one responds well when threatened. With a substance abuser, it’s never effective to try to force them to get treatment. You can set new rules, but avoid restricting them from seeing the children or other drastic threats. The point of the intervention is to get the individual to admit they have a problem and want help. You can’t force or threaten them to do so. This is one of the main misconceptions about intervention that often results in negative outcomes.
– Choose a rehab before staging the intervention.
If the intervention is a success, you want your loved one to enter treatment right away. Otherwise, may have time to change their mind. Choose a rehab based on the person’s level of addiction, substance involved, and other factors. You can talk to an intake advisor at the facility and make arrangements for your loved one to enter treatment right away.
Depending on the person’s needs, you can choose an inpatient or outpatient program, or self-help groups, aftercare programs, sober living homes, and more.
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The misconceptions about intervention have prevented many people from getting the treatment they desperately need. Few people decide to enter rehab unless someone or something happens to help them face the truth of their problem.
If you’re considering intervention for a loved one, contact us at Choices Recovery to learn how our programs help people overcome their addictions to lead healthy, drug-free lives.
- mayoclinic.org – Intervention: Help a Loved One Overcome Addiction
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