It often happens that an individual who is trapped in the problems of drug abuse and addiction is so completely immersed in these problems and their many damaging effects that he just cannot see that he desperately needs help. Even if they come to the point where they recognize the connection between their drug use and the many problems it is creating, the individual may be unable to take that first step toward lasting recovery. Unfortunately, his drug abuse and addiction problems are usually affecting others as well.
Family members and friends can also experience many of the damaging effects of drug abuse and addiction, including extreme emotional distress. A loved one’s drug abuse or addiction problems may be so severe that they force them to consider holding an intervention. Far more than simply a confrontational meeting, an intervention is a well-organized and well-planned process that allows family members and friends to present their loved one with the facts about their drug use and an offer of help and support. Obviously the ideal outcome for an intervention is for the individual to agree to participate in rehabilitation treatment services. This can occur quite frequently when the intervention is properly staged and carried out, not an easy thing to accomplish when family members and friends are struggling with confusion, anger, frustration and fear.
Receiving Crisis Training Before Holding an Intervention
There is simply no arguing the fact that drug abuse and addiction problems are a crisis, not only for the individual himself but also for others around him. Family members and friends can attest to the fact that they are usually emotionally distraught when dealing with a drug abusing or addicted loved one, primarily because they are constantly wondering when and if they will receive the absolute worst possible news regarding their loved one. This is where crisis training can be most helpful, in aiding family members and friends in coping with the situation so that they can actually help their loved one.
The individual who is struggling with drug abuse and addiction problems is also usually struggling with other crises. Whether overdoses, evictions, legal issues or relationship problems, these crises normally are exhausting for the individual, and can actually be a good foundation upon which to build the idea of recovery. However, in order to successfully do so, one does need to understand how to successfully aid the individual through the crises.
Technically, one could argue that an intervention begins from the moment one chooses to step into another’s life in order to help them. Crisis training can help one to assess immediate dangers that need to be addressed and resolved–such as the care for innocent children who may not be receiving proper food and care while in the custody of a drug abusing or addicted parent. One should also consider the safety of the drug abuser or addict himself–whether he has access to a vehicle and can get into greater harm and whether their drug consumption means they need an immediate visit to an emergency room. These immediate crises would need to be spotted and addressed first, prior to discussing with the individual their drug use problems and their ramifications.
Following the resolution of any immediate crises, family members and friends can proceed with their planned intervention. Here is where being prepared and emotionally calm can be of great benefit. Regardless of what the drug abusing or addicted individual may say, they are normally very interested in putting an end to their drug habits and in salvaging their relationships with the ones they love. By helping them to see that their drug use is harming self and others, and that they have the support and encouragement they need in order to take back control of their life and their future, an intervention can allow the individual to recognize that the path to full and lasting recovery lies before them, and they only need to step onto it.
Leave a Reply