How to Stage an Intervention Without Making Your Loved One Feel Attacked

Almost one out of every seven Americans will struggle with some substance abuse problem during their lifetime.

But getting someone addicted to drugs or alcohol to recognize what they’re doing as a problem can be difficult. This is especially true if your intervention goes less than well.

We’ve put together this guide to teach you how to stage an intervention without making your loved one feel attacked.

So make sure you keep reading below.

Come up with a Plan

You should never hold an intervention for a loved one without being prepared. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you’re more likely to fight or make no progress during the intervention.

Plan a date, a time, and a location. It’s better to avoid public places, so your loved one doesn’t feel embarrassed if other people overhear what you’re talking about.

You should also find rehab centers you can present to your loved ones as treatment options. Think about what you’ll do if they accept treatment, follow up with them, and what you’ll do if they refuse treatment.

Get the Right Team Together

Putting together your intervention team will play a significant role in determining whether your intervention will succeed. First, pick a few people close to your loved one, such as family members or friends.

Don’t bring anyone along who might sabotage the intervention. This might include people who you know won’t stick to the program or whom your loved one dislikes.

Never include a person who is struggling with their substance abuse problem.

Rehearse What You’re Going to Say

Create a script of what everyone will say during the intervention. Then, hold a rehearsal intervention to decide when each person will speak, where they will sit, etc.

This will ensure the actual intervention runs smoothly.

And choose your words carefully. Don’t use negative labels—like an addict, junkie, etc.—that might belittle your loved one or make them feel attacked.

Have Consequences – But Don’t Hold Them Over Their Head

If your loved one refuses treatment, there should be consequences. For example, parents of a grown child might ask them to move out. Friends might have to limit their relationships.

This is important to stop any enabling behavior.

But don’t hang these consequences over your loved one’s head during the intervention. Instead, let them know what the results are, but do it in a loving rather than an angry or scolding way.

Show Your Support

An intervention isn’t the place to get angry or overwhelmed with your own emotions. This can be hard, but do your best to control your personal feelings and avoid getting upset.

Instead, show your loved ones how much you support them. Make them aware of how much they mean to you and how important this is.

Be gentle, understanding, and willing to listen. How you act can make all the difference in how your loved one reacts.

How to Stage an Intervention Without Your Loved One Feeling Attacked

The last thing you want to do is make your loved one feel worthless or attacked. When thinking about how to stage an intervention, be patient and supportive. And remember to manage your expectations.

Your loved one might not agree to treatment. Make sure you plan for what to do next if they say no.

Not sure how to learn more about your loved one’s substance abuse?

Take a look at these websites that are just like WebMD.


Yvan Lebrun
Yvan Lebrun

Yvan Lebrun is a trusted expert in the field of product & service reviews. With over a decade of experience analyzing and comparing services online, he shares his valuable experience with readers at GoodSitesLike so consumers can make educated decisions before making a purchase.

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