What NOT to do at a Drug Intervention
Although it is a difficult step to take, calling for a drug intervention is one of the most important things one person can do for another. Family or friends who care enough about the individual to step in, take risks and let them know that they have a drug addiction problem is both brave and a tremendous act of kindness.
Knowing what to say and how to act during a drug intervention can be a challenge. While there will be (and should be) a professional interventionist present to help things go smoothly, it is still a good idea to review the information below and discover common mistakes that well-meaning friends and family often make during a drug intervention.
Things NOT to do During a Drug Intervention
Do not move forward without a professional
It is important that concerned individuals do not simply barrel head first into an intervention. A professional interventionist should always be contacted before moving forward. Intervention professionals can make sure the environment is kept safe and the conversation remains productive.
Do not yell and scream
Always maintain a gentle, supportive tone of voice during an intervention. Everyone present at the intervention should communicate caring for the individuals with the addiction, and never shows signs anger or a feeling of passing judgment on the individual.
Do not all speak at the same time
Due to the pent up emotions preceding the event, everyone generally wants a chance to speak up at an intervention. But voices coming from all directions will only serve to muddle the message and intimidate the individual in question. Work the interventionist to elect a single "mouth piece" for the event and try to have the bulk conversation run through that person.
Do not act vindictively or in a confrontational manner
The object of the intervention is to confront a problem, NOT a person. Therefore, those at an intervention who have been hurt by the drug addict or had their trust violated should not use this opportunity to lash out at the individual for past transgressions.
Don't give up after one try
Many drug interventions don't work on the first try. The nature of drug addiction is to drive the individual deep into denial about their problem, and pulling them out of that state of mind can sometime take repeated attempts at intervention. Caring about the individual begins staying focused and trying until the message takes hold.
Keep the environment safe
The drug intervention should be held in a safe environment that is familiar to the individual in question. It can be a public place or the home of a friend or loved one. The two most important elements are that the location is safe and neutral.
For anyone who is struggling with drug addiction, Michael's House is there. The residential drug treatment programs at Michael's House provide individuals and their families with a chance to defeat drug addiction, and rebuild their lives and relationships for the ground up. Contact Michael's House today for more information.
