What is the difference between a Drug and Alcohol Intervention?

Regardless of the use of drugs or alcohol; intervention is intervention. There is basically no difference in techniques used between drug intervention and alcohol intervention. Both substances destroy people, families and communities. An intervention is a well thought out and planned confrontation with the person who is abusing drugs or alcohol. Intervention is the time to hold the abuser accountable.

Drugs and alcohol affect family and loved ones just as much, if not more than the abuser. During an intervention, the rules are laid out. It must be made perfectly clear that if treatment is not sought, it will affect any future relationship with the loved ones. Most families make it clear that drugs or alcohol will not be allowed in the home. It is also made clear that if the abuser comes home drunk or under the influence, they will not be let in. No further financial support should be given the drug and/or alcohol abuser either.

The intervention should be well planned, preferably with a drug counselor or in connection with a rehab center. What makes intervention work is firstly, the element of surprise. Drug abusers and alcoholics just do not expect loved ones to stand up to them and confront them. A drug or alcohol intervention seldom works when done spontaneously and without planning. This is where the “tough love” is going to come in and all family members should be there to support each other before, during and after an intervention.

The good news is; most drug abusers and alcoholics do seek help within a week of an intervention. Loved ones must remain firm and not put up with any more drug use or drinking. Gathering as many friends and family members as possible also helps. Stand united and confront the user and then stay united. Loved ones will need to depend on each other for support and to stand firm.

Regardless of the substance being used, interventions are the same. They are equally effective for drug addiction and alcohol. Interventions may be one of the family’s only forms of defense against the substance abuse. A well planned intervention just may be what it takes to put the loved one on the path to being substance free. They have a very high success rate. Many families have tried them and been glad they did.

If you are ready to make an intervention or would like to discuss how to make one, call a Professional Chemical Dependency Counselor at Narconon Trois-Rivieres to get help. 1-877-782-7409