intervention is a confrontational meeting of one or more
individuals in an attempt to urge someone to seek professional
treatment.When you ask the average person what he/she thinks an
intervention is the usual response is pertaining to someone with an
addiction to drugs. Most people do not realize that there are many
other forms of mental illness which may require an intervention.
Substance abuse is the most common reason for an intervention, but
there are other addictions such as gambling, sex, hoarding, and
eating disorders which require professional help.
An intervention consists of a confrontational meeting where the
family or friends of an individual gives an ultimatum to their
loved one in order to get them to seek professional help.
Interventions can be very effective if the family or friends
involved have the courage to come forward and put their feet down
to save the life of a loved one. If the interventionists remain
strong the chances of the intervention being a success are greatly
increased. On the other hand if they are weak minded and do not
stand by their decisions the chances of their loved one suffering
more is increased. In some cases death may be a real
possibility.
When giving an ultimatum to someone there is a thin line you
must walk in order to successfully get your point across while
making sure not to appear to be attacking the individual who needs
help. Most people, especially addicts, will look for any excuse to
leave the intervention. When they feel cornered or attacked they
will go into a fight or flight mode. The best way to relieve some
of the pressure from their shoulders is for you to try to explain
how their behavior effects you. Avoid blaming them for anything,
but let them know that they have effected you in a negative way. It
is a good idea to have a professional at the intervention who can
mediate and keep the confrontation from becoming heated. If you
know someone who needs help have the courage to confront them.
