How to Stage an Intervention
In This Article
An intervention is a powerful tool for addressing addiction, but it also requires thoughtful preparation and execution. It’s about creating a safe space where your loved one feels heard and understood, even if they’re resistant to change at first.
By approaching them with compassion and offering concrete solutions, you can encourage them to take the first step towards recovery. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps to stage an intervention, communication strategies to use, and resources for more help.
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How to Stage an Intervention
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How to Stage an Intervention
Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first step to starting an intervention. Notice if your loved one is showing subtle shifts in behavior, such as withdrawing from loved ones, neglecting responsibilities, and increasing reliance on substances.
These signs might be different depending on the type of addiction, but they all point to the possibility of substance use disorder.
Once you’re positive your loved one is displaying concerning behavior, here are 10 steps you can follow to stage an intervention:
- Assemble your team: Recruit close family and friends committed to helping. Prioritize calm, compassionate individuals.
- Consult a professional: Consider hiring an interventionist or addiction counselor. They can provide expertise and mediate if needed.
- Plan carefully: Choose a neutral location and appropriate time. Prepare specific, non-accusatory examples of the addiction’s impact.
- Offer a clear treatment plan: Research treatment options in advance and present a concrete plan, including immediate entry into treatment.
- Set boundaries and consequences: Establish clear limits if the person refuses help. Be prepared to follow through.
- Prioritize love and compassion: Express concern and a desire to help, avoiding judgment.
- Anticipate resistance: Stay calm if the person becomes defensive or angry. Reiterate concerns and the need for treatment.
- Offer ongoing support: Continue offering support and resources, even if treatment is initially refused. Consider seeking support for yourself.
- Choose the right model: Research models like the Johnson Model, ARISE, or Family Systemic Intervention. Select an approach that aligns with your situation.
- Rehearse: Practice the intervention to ensure everyone is prepared.
You also need to prepare yourself emotionally for the intervention. It’s natural to feel a mix of anxiety, sadness, and even anger.
The goal is to lovingly confront the person, express the impact of their addiction, and guide them toward accepting help. With careful planning and professional support, an intervention can be a powerful tool for change.
What are the Different Models of Intervention?
Several models of intervention exist to help people struggling with substance use disorders. Each model takes a different approach to navigating addiction. We grouped them into two main categories: confrontational and collaborative models.
These are examples of confrontational intervention models:
- Johnson model: A classic, confrontational approach involving a surprise intervention by family and friends
- SPARED model: A more recent model that combines systemic and cognitive-behavioral techniques, focusing on family system change and accountability
These are examples of collaborative intervention models:
- Systemic model: Emphasizes changing the family system that enables addiction rather than solely focusing on the individual.
- ARISE model: A relational approach involving the entire family system, using a tiered approach to motivate change.
- Motivational interviewing: A non-confrontational approach that aims to enhance internal motivation through reflective listening and open-ended questions.
- Love first model: A supportive approach that emphasizes expressing love and concern, framing addiction as a medical issue.
The most effective model often depends on individual circumstances and family dynamics. It’s essential to choose a model that resonates with the person and their specific needs.
Some interventions focus on education and awareness, providing a person with information about the consequences of their addiction. Others focus on skill-building, equipping them with coping mechanisms to manage cravings and triggers.
We suggest consulting a professional interventionist who can help tailor an approach to maximize the chances of successful treatment.
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Effective Communication Strategies for an Intervention
An intervention is not an ambush or a confrontation but rather a carefully orchestrated conversation. The words you choose, the tone you set, and the empathy you express can significantly impact the outcome of this crucial conversation.
Here are some communication strategies you can use for a successful intervention:
- Flexibility and responsiveness: An intervention has no script, so it’s essential to be able to adapt to emotional currents and meet your loved ones where they are.
- Acknowledging addiction’s effects: Addiction ripples through families and social circles, creating a web of pain and confusion. An effective intervention creates a space where everyone feels heard and understood.
- Incorporating role-playing or simulation exercises: These can help everyone involved gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the person struggling with addiction. It bridges the gap between understanding and judgment.
- Prioritizing positive communication. Focus on specific behaviors and their impact rather than making generalizations or accusations. Use “I” statements to express your concerns, such as “I feel worried when…” or “I’m concerned about…” This approach conveys your care and avoids putting the individual on the defensive.
The goal is to create a supportive atmosphere, not a hostile one. It’s about building a bridge toward healing and recovery, one compassionate conversation at a time.
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Who Should Be a Part of the Intervention?
Part of planning an intervention includes deciding who should come. People attending an intervention include those significant to the person with the addiction.
The group usually includes:
- Close family
- Friends
- Spouses or significant others
- A doctor or addiction specialist
- An interventionist
- A member of their faith
If someone important in the person’s life cannot attend, they should write a letter. Review it in advance and read it to the person with substance use disorder during the intervention.
Who Shouldn’t Come to the Intervention?
Inviting certain people can be counterproductive to the intervention. Though the list of attendees may vary, those who should not attend an intervention can include:
- Anyone who the person with the disorder dislikes
- Those with substance abuse or mental health issues of their own
- Those who used drugs or alcohol with the person
- Anyone who might not be able to stay on track and only discuss pre-arranged topics
- Anyone who might sabotage the intervention
Resources and Support for Successful Intervention
Staging an intervention for a loved one struggling with addiction is a courageous act of love, but it can also be emotionally overwhelming and logistically complex.
Thankfully, there are various professional resources and support systems available to help you navigate this path:
- Professional interventionists: These experienced people can help you plan and execute the intervention, offering invaluable insights and support throughout the process.
- Intervention support from treatment centers: They can help you understand the complexities of addiction, prepare for potential challenges, and connect you with the appropriate treatment options for your loved one.
- Family support groups (Al-Anon or Nar-Anon): They offer a safe space to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences and learning from others can be incredibly empowering, reminding you that you’re part of a larger community of support.
With the right resources, a well-structured plan, and compassion, you can make a profound difference in your loved one’s life.
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- “How to Stage an Alcohol or Drug Abuse Intervention.” American Addiction Centers, 2024.
- “Intervention Techniques.” Talbott Recovery, n.d.
- Loverde, M. “Family Intervention Models for Addiction Recovery.” Family First Intervention, 2020.
- “Four Models of Intervention.” Skywood Recovery, n.d.
- “Association of Intervention Specialists – AIS – Certified Interventionist.” Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS), n.d.