Alcoholism is a personal battle that should be approached with care—learn about interventions.
When someone has their first drink, chances are they won’t think about the potential for alcoholism. In many instances, they are probably just focused on having a new experience or enjoying time with friends and family. Unfortunately, alcohol can influence people more than they realize.
If a loved one in your life is suffering from alcoholism, you might be considering an intervention. In this article, we will discuss what you should and shouldn’t do when approaching this discussion with the people you care about.
How to Approach an Intervention About Alcoholism
An intervention is a conversation with a loved one with the hope of getting them help for substance abuse. Alcoholism is a condition that influences every aspect of a person’s life—how they think, feel, and even their health. Since this is the case, it can be a very sensitive subject. The steps you take during an intervention can have a direct effect on how the person responds. Consider these best practices.
Do: Show Plenty of Love and Support
Above all else, it is important to approach an intervention from a point of love. You are having this talk to support the person you care about and get them the help that they need. Since this is the case, it is important to make sure that the person knows they are loved and supported.
Do: Be Honest About the Situation
It is not easy to talk about alcoholism, especially when it has impacted your family. However, being honest is important. Express your concerns, and let them know that you want what is best for them above all else.
Do: Consider Professional Support
An intervention can help—or it can cause further distress and drive the person away. Since these talks are so important, it can be helpful to have a professional involved. This will help to ensure that the discussion is productive and will help convince your loved one to get the support they need.
Do Not: Blame, Chastise, or Threaten
There is no denying that alcoholism can negatively impact the people around an alcoholic, but those discussions really aren’t productive when it comes to getting someone help. Avoid interventions that are focused on negativity and blaming. Instead, position yourself as a member of their support system.
The Takeaway
Alcoholism is a big talk, and it is not always easy to help someone see how this condition has influenced them. If you are looking to get a loved one the support they need, it can help to consider affordable substance abuse treatment. We help people to address their substance abuse problems and get the support they need through a combination of therapy and medical interventions. To learn more about alcoholism or how to support a loved one, contact us today.