Alcohol Intervention Strategies

When it comes to alcohol intervention strategies, what might work for one person, may not for another. An intervention is when you take an action to improve a situation. Interventions come in many forms; some are subtle and may not look as though it is an intervention at all. Then some blatantly express that you need to do this or else; an ultimatum is given. You may have to do several interventions before one seems to work, and then there are some instances where the person will not change.

Offer Counseling

• People drink to excess for many different reasons. Some are self-medicating and have done so for years. Underlying problems are usually there, and even the person who is doing the drinking may not know what they are. An intervention can be as subtle as suggesting this person go to counseling. Even if the person is not invested in giving up alcohol, working with a counselor might help him realize how it is affecting his life and the lives of those around him.

Stop Helping Them

• The person who cannot hold down a job due to his drinking and is constantly borrowing money from family and friends is actually getting help to continue his drinking. There is no reason for him to even think about changing his ways if when he is out of money, a loved one or friend hands some over to him.

  It may seem harsh, but a way to intervene and help him on the road to recovery is to cut off that lifeline. When family and friends refuse to give her money for his alcohol and lifestyle, he will need to make a change. Chances are after a few days with no money, he may decide to find a job and stick with it. This is an intervention that may work for some.

Cannot See Their Loved Ones

• Many excessive drinkers display behavior that is inappropriate when they are drinking. She may become angry; she may swear or just become belligerent. If she does this around children, such as grandchildren or nieces and nephews, you can tell her she will no longer be allowed around the youngsters until she gives up drinking. This is not only for the good of the drinker, but for the children too. They should not be subjected to this type of behavior. The fact that she is no longer allowed around her loved ones might be the intervention needed to have her seek help.

Group Intervention

• A formal intervention is also a strategy used by families and friends of someone who is drinking too much. Everyone gets together at a prearranged meeting place and the person who has the drinking problem is invited without being told it is an intervention. Everyone takes turns telling that person how much they care about him and how his drinking has affected their lives. The person is not scolded or called names; it is done in kindness. Each person gives the drinker a certain ultimatum, such as not going bowling with him because of the drinking and behavior he exhibits there. The ultimatum can be as serious as telling the person, such as a husband, wife or older child, that that persons needs to move out if drinking continues. At this type of intervention, help such as rehab is offered .