Conducting an Intervention
An intervention should be carefully thought out and planned before it takes place. Here are some suggestions to guide you through the process:
Do your research.
First, you should research chemical dependency to figure out if what is happening to your loved one is cause for concern. The Warning Signs Checklist in this guide can help you determine if there is a problem. You may even want to talk to a therapist or attend a support group to gain a better understanding of substance abuse. Research treatment centers and make reservations in advance for your loved one at an appropriate facility (please see the section on “Finding the Right Treatment Center” later in this guide).
Get people involved.
People significant to the individual should gather in a group of 6-8. Keep in mind that these people should be important to him or her. Children may be included if appropriate.
Elect a chairperson.
This person will open the intervention with a statement and guide the participants smoothly through the process. He or she will also be the only person who talks out of turn to address the individual’s questions or objections.
Plan what you are going to say ahead of time.
Each person should write a letter to the person of concern and read it during the intervention. This should focus on your love, care, and respect for the individual, as well as your concern and desire to help. Start with what you like about the person and happy memories you have together. Then, voice your concern about the substance abuse and how you feel it has affected both your loved one and others. Speak from the heart, don’t be judgmental, and don’t let the conversation turn into an argument. (Please see the “Intervention Letter Writing” ).
Offer treatment.
Each person should end their letter by asking the individual to get treatment immediately. Once the person of concern agrees to go to treatment, the intervention is over. It may not be necessary for everyone to read their prepared letters. If she or he does not agree, the letter writers may read a set of pre-determined ultimatums or “bottom lines,” explaining what they are prepared to do to stop enabling the addiction.
Rehearse.
The group members should practice reading their letters to one another and edit them to remove anger, judgment, and blame. They should also decide the order in which the letters will be read, putting more sensitive readers in between stronger ones.
Pick a time and place.
Choose a location that is comfortable, private, and accommodating for the entire group. Seating should be determined ahead of time, including where the person of concern will sit upon arrival. There should be no moving around during the intervention. Everyone involved in the process should be clear-headed and sober, including the person of concern (if possible).
