What is an intervention?
Supporting a loved one struggling with addiction is a challenging journey, and initiating a heart to heart conversation may not always be enough. Often, individuals facing addiction may be unaware of the severity of their situation. In such cases, a more focused and collaborative approach, such as a formal intervention, may be necessary.
Addiction can show up in many different ways, like trouble with alcohol, misusing prescription drugs, using illicit street drugs to self medicate, compulsive overeating, and gambling. But often, the person struggling doesn't realize they need help or how their actions affect everyone around them.
An intervention is a thoughtfully organized process involving family, friends, loved ones, and is best led by a professional, such as a Certified Intervention Professional. Occasionally, individuals from your loved one's faith community, or others who genuinely care about the person struggling with addiction may also be involved.
During the intervention, this supportive group gathers to address your loved one, discuss he impact of their addiction, and encourage them to consider treatment. The intervention typically:
Provides real-life examples of the addicted person’s harmful behaviors, illustrating their effects on their loved ones and their relationships with family and friends.
Presents a well-defined treatment plan with clear steps, goals, and guidelines.
Outlines the actions each person in the intervention will take if your loved one hesitates to accept treatment.
A well-planned intervention is essential for success, as a poorly executed one can worsen the situation. Approaching the intervention delicately is key, making sure the individual senses support instead of feeling attacked. This creates an environment where they are more open to the idea of seeking and accepting treatment.
There are multiple styles of interventions. Some of the most common are The Johnson Model, also known as a Surprise Intervention, the Invitational Intervention, and the Love First.
The Johnson Model (Surprise)
The Johnson Model is a structured approach designed to help individuals struggling with addiction recognize the severity of their substance abuse and accept the need for treatment. This model involves a carefully planned confrontation with the individual by a group of concerned family members, friends, and sometimes colleagues. The key element of the Johnson Model is the presentation of specific instances illustrating the impact of the individual's addiction on their own life and the lives of those around them. This intervention aims to break through the individual's denial and elicit a commitment to seek help. The process is conducted with empathy and love, emphasizing support for the individual's journey toward recovery. The Johnson Model has been widely used and has shown effectiveness in motivating individuals to enter treatment and embark on the path to recovery.
Invitational Intervention
An Invitational Intervention is a compassionate and collaborative approach to addressing addiction concerns with an individual. In contrast to more confrontational methods, this model emphasizes invitation and encouragement rather than coercion. The Invitational Intervention seeks to create a supportive atmosphere where the individual feels respected and understood. The process involves inviting the person to a gathering that typically includes loved ones, friends, and a professional interventionist. During this gathering, participants express their concerns, share observations, and offer support without employing confrontational tactics. The Invitational Intervention fosters open communication, allowing the individual to make an informed decision about seeking treatment voluntarily. This model recognizes the autonomy of the person struggling with addiction and encourages them to take an active role in their recovery journey, promoting a sense of empowerment and collaboration among all involved parties.
Love First Approach:
Another form of intervention is the Love First approach, often conducted within the comfort of the addict's home environment. This methodology emphasizes the importance of demonstrating love and compassion to the individual struggling with addiction, both prior to and throughout the treatment process. While it may seem like a natural response, living with a loved one battling drug or alcohol addiction can profoundly affect the mental and emotional well-being of family members and friends.
At times, loved ones may need gentle reminders to extend compassion and exercise patience as their loved one navigates the journey of recovery. In the initial stages of this intervention approach, family members are encouraged to respectfully challenge any excuses presented by the addict. For example, if the addict claims they cannot seek treatment due to childcare responsibilities, family members might gently remind them that alternative care arrangements have been made with a trusted family member. Additionally, it's beneficial to highlight the temporary nature of these arrangements, ensuring they will allow ample time for the individual to pursue treatment.
Maintaining a calm demeanor during this period is crucial to prevent tension, conflict, and defensiveness. The hallmark of the Love First intervention is the inclusion of heartfelt intervention letters written by loved ones. These letters express personal feelings, shared memories, and words of support. They are read aloud during the formal intervention, serving as powerful tools for fostering understanding and empathy within the family dynamic.
