The intervention is a delicate procedure for both the family members and the drug or alcohol dependant person. The risk, of course, is that the substance abuser will react with anger and resentment, thus spiraling further out of control, away from the grasp of family and friends. In some cases, poorly planned intervention strategies have resulted in a runaway, an overdose, or even a suicide. Do not let this deter you from trying, however, as the alternative is just as bad. You can arrange successful, life-saving abuse treatment if you plan properly.

The first step for an intervention is to choose the members to be involved. This group generally consists of three to eight people comprised of family members, friends, coworkers, clergy or a professional interventionist. Each person must be firmly committed and able to look the addict in the eye and say “You have a problem.” They must firmly resolve to end the cycle of enabling to really help the person. The team members must have intimate, first hand knowledge of the situation to successfully break through the addict’s denial.

You must select people who have leverage and influence over the individual, who have the ability to make an emotional impact. In some cases, a seemingly helpless person like a young child could have the largest impact. Never underestimate the power of love. Prior to the intervention, a chairperson and a detail person should be chosen to facilitate the process and to keep a record of everything.

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