An intervention is a carefully planned process to help a person struggling with addiction or mental health disorders. The purpose of an intervention is to encourage the individual to seek a treatment program and support. While most people historically understand interventions to be for drug or alcohol addiction, they can be used for both substance abuse or a mental health disorder (or both).
Substance abuse interventions focus on helping individuals overcome addiction to drugs or alcohol get into a treatment program for their addiction. A mental health intervention focuses on helping individuals manage a serious mental illness, such as depression or anxiety. Both types of interventions require a thoughtful and structured approach.
A therapist can host an intervention, especially if they have experience working with individuals with addiction or mental health disorders. A professional can provide effective guidance and support throughout the process.
There are certain benefits for having a therapist involved with a mental health or addiction intervention. A therapist can help the intervention team develop a clear plan and strategy, and can provide emotional support and guidance to the individual and their loved ones.
Interventions can get complicated if the person refuses treatment, or requires dual diagnosis treatment. Family members may have been trying for years to get their family member addiction treatment for a substance use disorder or help for a mental illness. As a professional, a therapist can help facilitate communication and ensure a successful intervention. Interventions with a therapist can be less contentious and more effective.
A mental health intervention should include the following:
Choose a location that is comfortable and safe for the individual and select a date and time that works for everyone involved. Rehearse the intervention to ensure a smooth process and to prepare for potential reactions.
Loved ones, such as family members or close friends should be involved, as well a therapist or mental health provider. If necessary, you can also contact a professional intervention specialist. Be sure to involve anyone who has a positive influence on the individual.
Social support is crucial for individuals recovering from substance abuse, and a strong support system can help individuals stay on track with their treatment plan. Loved ones can provide emotional support and encouragement that makes a real difference.
Express your concern and empathy for the individual, and avoid blaming or accusing language. Focus on the individual’s behavior and its impact on loved ones, and encourage the individual to seek treatment and support.
When it comes to the mental health intervention or substance abuse issues intervention itself, here are some do's and don'ts to follow.
Do:
Don’t:
Use “I” statements to express concerns and feelings, as this will help you to avoid blaming or accusing language. Provide clear and specific examples of the individual’s destructive behavior, and encourage the individual to seek treatment and support in a loving way.
Remain calm and empathetic, even in the face of resistance or denial. Have a strong understanding of treatment options and/or the recovery process for addictive treatment. Use active listening skills to understand the individual’s concerns, and avoid getting defensive or argumentative. Stay focused on the goal of encouraging treatment and support.
Ensure the individual has access to treatment and support services, and continue to provide ongoing emotional support and encouragement. You can also help the individual develop a relapse prevention plan.
Schedule follow-up meetings with the individual and their loved ones and monitor the individual’s progress, and provide ongoing support. Make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
If your loved one refuses mental illness or addiction treatment, respect their decision, but also express concern and empathy. Continue to provide ongoing emotional support and encouragement, and consider seeking professional help, such as a professional intervention specialist.
To find a professional, research local treatment centers and intervention services on a trusted site, like the ADA or NIHM. You may also ask for referrals from mental health professionals or loved ones. When you get a list of several names, be sure to check their credentials and experience before making a final decision.
A successful intervention requires careful planning and execution, and a therapist or mental health professional can play a crucial role in the intervention process. Social support can also be essential for a person struggling with the destructive behavior that can be part of substance abuse or mental health disorders.
At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level psychotherapists offers a variety of evidence-based approaches and specializations, and allows you to work with a provider that works with specific mental health issues or addictive behaviors and can offer the right tools to assist.
If you are looking to seek therapy for a loved one or need help with a family intervention, call today to speak with a service coordinator who can find the right Austin addiction therapist for you. As well as being able to help determine what accommodations may be effective, your therapist can help you find treatment programs and guide the person struggling with addiction or mental illness to accept treatment.