When Does Someone Need an Intervention?

Intervention is the catalyst that can propel an individual to a new, happier life. Days become very dark in the life of an addicted person; consequently, they may not see – or care – that they have a problem. It’s one of those powerful tools that families can use to urge a person to seek help and enter treatment. Generally, an intervention is necessary when someone’s addiction begins to destroy their personal relationships, work obligations, hobbies, and the happiness of their family. When a loved one continues to abuse drugs, despite negative consequences, intervention and treatment may be the only option.

To Intervene or Not to Intervene?

There are a few warning signs and factors that may send a person into an addiction. Co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and fear may exacerbate drug addiction. Social isolation, erratic behavior, financial issues, problems at work or school, and un-needed stress in personal relationships can be the result.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of drug abuse is necessary if you wish to help your loved one. An intervention will force uncomfortable, emotional conversations; the individual in question may not be very responsive to the intervention at first. However, drug addiction tends to spiral out of control, with the National Institute on Drug Abuse considering addiction a progressive, chronic disease.

Signs that someone needs an intervention

• Drunk driving and other activities that endanger others
• Amnesia, or the inability to remember behaviors – especially negative ones – that affect family members and people close to them
• Legal issues or pending legal issues, especially those with drug charges
• Multiple failed attempts to reduce quantity and frequency of use
• Increased conflict with family, friends, and coworkers
• Shunning of basic responsibilities, such as house chores and going to work
• Intense mood swings
• Degradation of physical appearance, sleep cycles, and eating habits
• High levels of drug tolerance
• Large amounts of mysterious debt
• Worsening mental health problems
• Isolation

Stepping in before things get worse can help save your loved one’s life. This is especially important if your loved one is abusing hard drugs, as one bad batch can result in overdose.

Interventionist in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

An intervention should be highly structured and controlled to decrease the chance of the intervention going off the rails. If your loved one has a history of suicidal ideations, violence, mental illness, and/or rationalization, professional help may be necessary to avoid a compromising situation.

Addiction is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Effective treatment requires a solution, which requires professional support. At Recovery Care Partner, we intervene in such as a way that the addict/alcoholic will likely be more receptive to the intervention and will be more likely to attend treatment.  If you are in need of an intervention in Atlanta, Richmond, Philadelphia or South Jersey, contact us today!