Learn how to plan and host a successful intervention for a loved one struggling with addiction. Get expert tips, scripts, and resources to encourage treatment.
Watching a loved one battle addiction can leave you feeling helpless, but an intervention could be the catalyst they need to seek help. Studies show that 90% of interventions succeed in getting someone into treatment when guided by a professional. This step-by-step guide, informed by licensed addiction counselors, will help you organize a compassionate and effective intervention.
1. What is an Intervention?
An intervention is a structured, loving conversation where family and friends urge someone to accept treatment for addiction. It’s not about blame—it’s about offering support and solutions.
Key Stats:
- 1 in 10 interventions are done without professional help, but those guided by specialists have a 60% higher success rate (NIDA).
- Over 70% of people who enter rehab after an intervention stay sober for at least one year (SAMHSA).
2. How to Plan an Intervention: 6 Steps
Step 1: Form Your Intervention Team
- Who to include: 4-6 close family members, friends, or coworkers. Avoid anyone with unresolved anger or active addiction.
- Pro Tip: Hire an intervention specialist (we can help you find one) to mediate and keep the conversation on track.
Step 2: Research Treatment Options
- Action: Search to find inpatient or outpatient programs in advance. Have brochures, costs, and admission details ready.
- Example: “We’ve found a 30-day detox program near Dallas that accepts your insurance.”
Step 3: Write Impact Statements
- What to say:
- Do: Use “I” statements. “I’m scared I’ll lose you if you keep using.”
- Don’t: Accuse or shame. “You’re destroying this family!”
- Template:“When you [specific behavior], I feel [emotion]. I need you to [action] because [reason].”
Step 4: Choose Consequences
- Boundaries are critical. Examples:
- “If you refuse treatment, I can’t let you see the kids until you’re sober.”
- “We’ll stop paying your rent if you don’t go to rehab.”
- Rule: Only state consequences you’ll enforce.
Step 5: Rehearse the Meeting
- Practice with your team to avoid emotional outbursts. A specialist can role-play resistance tactics (e.g., denial, anger).
Step 6: Hold the Intervention
- Location: Neutral, private space (not their home).
- Timing: Avoid times when they’re high, hungover, or stressed.
3. What to Do During the Intervention
- Stay calm: Let the specialist lead if tensions rise.
- Present treatment plans: Hand them brochures, program start dates, and packed luggage (if inpatient).
- Ultimatum: “Will you go to rehab today?”
If They Say Yes:
- Drive them directly to the clinic. Delays increase backsliding risk.
If They Say No:
- Follow through on consequences. “We’ll resume contact when you’re ready to get help.”
4. Common Intervention Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake 1: Inviting too many people.
- Fix: Keep the group small and unified.
- Mistake 2: No plan for “no.”
- Fix: Agree on next steps (e.g., cutting financial support) beforehand.
- Mistake 3: Using guilt.
- Fix: Focus on love, not anger. “We’re doing this because we care.”
5. How to Find an Intervention Specialist
- Ask:
- Are you certified by the Association of Intervention Specialists (AIS)?
- Can you connect us to local rehab centers?
- Search: There are many resources online available to find a specialist.
6. What If They Relapse After Treatment?
- Stay supportive: Relapse is part of recovery for 40-60% of people (NIDA).
- Action: Encourage outpatient care or sober living homes. Use our [Aftercare Program Search] for options.
State-by-State Intervention Resources
- California: Free intervention workshops via the CA Dept of Health.
- Florida: State-funded interventionists for low-income families.
- New York: 24/7 intervention hotline: 1-888-999-1941.
“We Did It—And It Saved My Brother’s Life”
“We hired a specialist through The Sober Standard and got my brother into a clinic the same day. He’s 18 months sober now.” – Sarah, Denver, CO
Find an Intervention Specialist Near You
Important Disclaimer
The Sober Standard does not provide medical advice or guarantee treatment outcomes. Interventions involve emotional risk; we strongly recommend consulting a certified professional.
