With the T V show Intervention creating such a huge following and awareness, we've been able to see more resources put into the hands of struggling families. The effectiveness of such an approach can be shown in multiple ways- the addict going into treatment, the family setting boundaries, etc. What many people may not realize is that intervention is generally for the family- regardless of whether or not the identified individual enters treatment. The most important part of the intervention is recognizing the problem- a drug addiction, a compulsive behavior, or a behavioral problem- and addressing it from the viewpoint of the family.
Once the family is able to understand that they can make changes within their own family dynamic WITH OR WITHOUT A COMMITMENT FROM THE IDENTIFIED INDIVIDUAL, then the interventionist has made lots of progress. Of course, it's hard at the outset for a family to see that the intervention is a success when an individual chooses not to seek help. However, should the family hold the boundaries the interventionist helped them set, they'll often see a change in the individual and the family system. Following the intervention with participation in a program of recovery such as Al-Anon is essential for family members to continue their healing process. The most important thing- DOING SOMETHING. When a family chooses to move forward with an intervention, they are creating a bottom for the addict- therefore, allowing an individual a chance to get well before things get worse.
Interventions are the greatest gift a family can give.
Here's some clips from the Intervention TV Show:
And here's some of my favorite interventionists:
Gallant and Associates
Addiction Intervention Resources
Surrender Interventions
Crisis Case Management
Bayer and Associates
And here's a video for the song Intervention by Arcade Fire. I just thought this was cool.
Here's something funny.
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"Of course, it's hard at the outset for a family to see that the intervention is a success when an individual chooses not to seek help. However, should the family hold the boundaries the interventionist helped them set, they'll often see a change in the individual and the family system."
ReplyDelete- I could not agree more. Often, the families perception of what is occurring vs. what the addict is experiencing are two very seperate worlds (each in a state of opposition of the other). Interventions are a wonderful way to create a single window through which both parties can look at the issues at hand.
Unfortunatly, there are situations where the addict does ultimatly refuses care, despite looking through that window (thus, the power of the addiction). However, families should not feel helpless at this point, or, that their attmet have been in vain. They have taken a very important step to empower themselves. From there however, I would recommend the family seek legal advice and a review the laws of the state in which one resides - generally, there are legal avenues to assist families once all else has failed.