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How to Stage an Intervention for an Alcoholic

Alcohol is a common beverage at restaurants, social gatherings and events. Although it is very much a part of our mainstream culture, it can cause a lot of harm for many individuals, especially those who become addicted to it.

In fact, alcoholism is a serious disease that affects nearly 15 million Americans aged 12 and older each year.

If you know someone struggling with alcohol addiction, an intervention may be the best solution to help them become sober.

Let’s discuss the logistics and importance of an intervention for an alcoholic, including how to stage an intervention.

What Is an Intervention?

A planned intervention is an opportunity to support someone you love through a difficult time with alcohol use. For most people, navigating an intervention can feel scary and difficult, no matter how close you are to someone.

It is important to handle an alcoholic intervention in a way that

  • fosters open communication
  • facilitates growth
  • prioritizes healing

By following this approach, the affected individual will be more open to listening to your thoughts and feelings, allowing them to consider receiving the professional help they need.

It is important to plan and facilitate an intervention safely and effectively for everyone involved, especially the alcoholic.

How to Stage an Intervention for an Alcoholic

An intervention involves many steps and questions to work through before the actual intervention day.

Before you sit down for an intervention, work through the following questions based on what’s best for you and the alcoholic.

Who should be involved?

Only include those who want the best for the person living with alcoholism.

It’s important to note that an intervention should be held when the affected individual is sober, as alcohol can significantly hinder the process.

Overall, the room should be filled with those open to having difficult but honest conversations about alcohol abuse. Consider making a list of everyone and discussing the situation with each person directly before the intervention.

Do not include those that may be overly confrontational or judgmental.

Where should intervention be held?

Ideally, an intervention should be held where the person with alcoholism feels safe, such as in their home or the home of someone they care about.

Although the affected individual may feel overwhelmed at the realization of an intervention, having the right people and location is key to starting this meaningful conversation on the right foot.

Make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe in the chosen location.

What is the goal of an intervention?

The goal for all should be centered around creating a safe space filled with open, honest and nonconfrontational dialogue.

After a successful intervention, some people may be able to recognize and remove themselves from an alcohol abuse cycle, but not all.

It is important to know that complete and instant abstinence from alcohol is not always a feasible intervention goal, and that’s okay.

Instead of only zeroing in on sobriety, make it a bigger goal to address the issue, communicate your concerns and offer viable treatment options for the person struggling with alcoholism.

Be sure to share the intent of the intervention with all involved before the meeting. Having everyone on the same page is key to success.

What to Do During the Intervention

After you’ve planned out all of the pieces for the intervention, it is equally important to know what should be involved on the actual day.

Although intervention is deeply personal and looks a little bit different for everyone, it should include

  • a space and time for everyone there to share their thoughts, feelings and ideas
  • consequences for the alcoholic to emphasize the magnitude of the problem
  • viable treatment options for the alcoholic to choose from
  • a plan on how to handle treatment, care and communication after the intervention

Effective and Compassionate Treatment for Alcoholism

Alpine Recovery Lodge offers specialized alcohol rehab for those struggling with alcoholism.

If you or someone you love is abusing alcohol or other illicit drugs, Alpine Recovery Lodge can help. Call 801-874-2917 and speak confidentially with a recovery expert today.