If your loved one is suffering from addiction, it can be difficult to recognize when an intervention is necessary, particularly when enablers or a toxic environment are present. However, you are not alone in this situation.
How Do I Know It’s Time?
It can be hard to determine when an intervention is needed. Many people believe simply talking to the person in question and being honest can help their loved one change their behavior; however, it rarely works out that way. When addiction has become severe, known as the “point of no return,” the individual may recognize that they have a problem yet not take action. Once they have reached this stage, an intervention is necessary. However, it is up to the individual whether or not they want to go through with rehab or attempt detox. An interventionist can help facilitate a conversation, but the individual must make their own decision. The consequences of an intervention can be life-altering, not just for the person with a substance use disorder, but for their entire family. Therefore, it is important to determine the most effective time to stage an intervention to maximize the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Timing
Different families have varying expectations for deciding when to hold an intervention. The best time to stage an intervention for any family should be determined by factors such as the availability of all participants at a planning session and the intervention; having a place reserved in an inpatient/outpatient rehab program; when the person in addiction is available and sober; and when it is evident that the person’s life or quality of life is at risk. During an intervention, it is rare that this will be the first time the topic of rehab has been brought up. Usually, the family has suggested that the person seek treatment or, at the very least, talk to somebody about the issue to see what treatment service would be appropriate. If it is clear that someone is unable to stop or moderate their use of a drug despite facing extreme consequences, it may be time to stage an intervention.
Warning Signs
If the severity of the person’s substance use has progressed slowly, it may not be evident at this time that an intervention is necessary. However, there are some warning signs that can help identify the appropriate time to suggest treatment, which includes:
- The person suffers from a severe health issue caused by the use of drugs and/or alcohol (e.g., overdose).
- The person is arrested for drug use or actions taken under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
- The person is experiencing increased mental health and/or medical issues as a result of continued drug use.
- Someone harms another person while under the influence of a substance (e.g., driving while intoxicated, physical or sexual assault, domestic violence, etc.).
- The family has reached a point where they can no longer rationalize the damage caused by the individual’s addiction and must take action for their own well-being.
Signs of addiction typically include both physical and psychological dependence; an individual may experience extreme physical and mental discomfort if deprived of the addictive substance. Furthermore, the addictive substance becomes a priority in the person’s life, taking precedence over their health and well-being, as well as the health and well-being of those around them. If the person is unable to stop using the addictive substance despite their desire to do so, an intervention may be necessary.
Too Soon?
When it comes to addiction, there is no such thing as “too soon.” Early treatment is often recommended as treating a less severe addiction is easier and often leads to better outcomes, such as fewer relapses and a faster return to abstinence. It is important to note that an intervention can still be beneficial even if the person refuses to go to rehab. A component of an intervention is explicitly stating how the situation will change if the person refuses to seek treatment. Having the family follow through on the promise of consequences can make the person realize that addiction is causing them to lose out on life and that they are in need of help. Often, individuals who initially reject treatment at an intervention will return within weeks, asking for assistance to get rid of their addiction.
Rock Bottom
The idea that a person must hit “rock bottom” before an intervention or addiction treatment can be effective can put friends and family in a tough position, as it can be difficult to accurately assess the level of substance use and what constitutes “rock bottom.” Success in treatment is not necessarily determined by the severity of an individual’s situation; even those who have experienced the worst of circumstances may not be able to find a lasting path to recovery. People who have suffered immense personal damage, such as losing their family, health, or home, can still find it difficult to achieve sobriety. Conversely, those who have experienced fewer serious consequences may be able to remain sober with the help of treatment. No matter the degree of damage caused by addiction, if it is present, then treatment is necessary for recovery.
Though you may feel helpless if your loved one is struggling with addiction, staging an intervention is an empowering act that can help you regain control of your life, emotions, and relationships. While you may not be able to control whether or not they agree to get help or remain sober, you can take steps to safeguard your own well-being and support them in making the right choices. An intervention is a way for you to show your support for the person struggling with addiction, as it demonstrates that you understand that the issue is a psychological and medical disorder. Only through treatment can the individual begin the process of recovery.