An intervention on alcoholism occurs when an alcoholic is confronted with the specifics and seriousness of their addiction and encouraged to get help. It's a difficult process, both for the alcoholic and for the family and friends who take part, but when it's done properly and under the guidance of a trained counselor, it can be an effective way of helping an alcoholic sees the depth of their addiction without having to " hit bottom " and lose everything.

Talk to a Counselor

Every intervention should start with consulting a professional. With someone trained in substance use counseling, an intervention will stay on track, focused on helping the alcoholic and reining in the emotions that may arise.

Choose Who Will Attend

Family and friends may want to meet with the counselor ahead of time to go over what they want to say. Some participants may choose to write down their thoughts. Others may choose not to participate.

Plan What To Say

What is said during the intervention is a personal choice, but there should be no criticism or judgment on the alcoholic during the intervention. Participants should tell the alcoholic how they feel about their alcoholism and point out incidents in which they were hurt by the alcoholic's actions while under the influence.

Stay Focused

The point of an intervention is to get the alcoholic to go into treatment that very day. The way to do this is to be supportive even while pointing out that they have a problem. Your goal is to help the alcoholic, not hurt them or embarrass them by pointing out their mistakes. With a trained professional guiding the process, the outcome of a successful intervention will see the alcoholic being driven to a treatment center.

Consequences