An interventionist works with families in order to develop a strategy surrounding addiction and substance abuse treatment for a loved one. As mental health specialists, interventionists have in-depth knowledge on how addiction impacts the mind and body and uses this to help stage a successful intervention. When planning an intervention, it’s important to know when to involve a professional.
Mental Health Issues Exist Alongside Addiction
Unfortunately, mental health disorders can make an individual more likely to develop an addiction. The primary conditions that cause concern are anxiety disorders, difficulty regulating emotion and antisocial personality tendencies.
In these cases, an interventionist can provide everyone involved with the knowledge needed to understand how addiction is impacting their loved one. They’ll also draft a conversation path that better suits the individual’s mindset to avoid raised tension and emotions.
If the individual has multiple mental health disorders they will require even more assistance. Dual diagnosis programs are ideal in this situation to keep everyone as safe and comfortable as possible through the intervention.
If Violence From the Individual Is a Concern
Contrary to popular belief and media portrayal, those who abuse alcohol or drugs typically aren’t aggressive. This is good news for many but for some, the substance being abused can cause adverse changes to their brain. When this happens, impulse control can become extremely difficult to muster up and lead to outbursts.
Take for example an individual that previously would respond to overwhelming stress by becoming angry. After long-term drug abuse, these fits of anger can evolve into fits of rage and even violence. They may yell or attempt to start fights with those they love or destroy objects around them during the episode.
Bringing an interventionist into the picture will better prepare the group for possible tension and heightened emotions. The interventionist can steer the conversation where it needs to go and prevent escalation during the exchange. Keeping everyone safe and working towards the goal of treatment is the top priority.
The Individual Has Relapsed After Previous Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a lifelong disease that has no cure. Proper addiction treatment will give the individual the tools needed to maintain sobriety going forward, but not all treatment programs provide the same level of care. If the individual doesn’t have the support and resources to stay away from drugs and alcohol then they may relapse.
Relapsing after treatment can be a critical blow to the confidence and self-esteem of the individual. An interventionist will be able to provide the needed sympathy and empathy to build the individual up until they’re able to commit to seeking treatment.
In some cases, relapse can occur if the individual goes home to a toxic environment. When friends or family are difficult and unsupportive, it makes falling into old habits much more likely. Judgement and loved ones blaming the individual for their addiction are two components that have a large impact on them as well.
No matter how severe the situation may seem, East Point Recovery Services is here to provide you and your family with intervention services. We encourage anyone in need of help to reach out to our team for a private consultation. It’s never too late or too early for an intervention.