How to Do an Intervention

People choose to do interventions for a variety of reasons. Interventions are often associated with drug or alcohol addiction, self-damaging behavior and other abusive situations and relationships. According to Hazelden.com, an intervention involves deliberately introducing change into an individual's thoughts. The goal is to show this person how their behavior is negatively affecting themselves and others in a non-aggressive way. Although specific actions during an intervention will vary based on the individual being confronted as well as their particular challenges; the following steps describe how to perform an intervention.

Instructions

How to Do an Intervention.

• 1

  Learn about the problem. Prior to confronting an individual about a specific problem, gather the facts. For instance, if a family member suffers from alcohol abuse, make a detailed list of instances that prove this and the dates on which they occurred. A list might contain days that the individual came home intoxicated or examples of drunken behavior.

• 2

  Assemble the group. Interventions are often done in groups and usually involve family members or close friends. It is important that people involved in the intervention are meaningful to the subject who is being confronted. The goal of the group is not only to describe the problem to the subject, but also to show the subject, through their presence at the intervention, that his behavior is damaging them.

• 3

  Create a plan. Prior to the intervention, a clear plan should be created for the group who will perform the confrontation. The plan should include subjects that everyone will talk about, how to avoid hostility and a detailed solution to the problem. For example, if the intervention is performed for a drug addict, a solution might involve a rehab clinic or therapy. All of these details should be figured out prior to the intervention.

• 4

  Choose a location and time. The intervention should occur in a relatively private but neutral space. Some people choose to stage interventions without the subject's knowledge, and this may be necessary if the subject is at risk for avoiding the meeting. Interventions may be done in someone's home or at a restaurant; however, the location should allow everyone to speak openly and comfortably. If a restaurant is chosen a private room is advisable so that everyone feels at ease.

• 5

  Confront the subject. Initially the subject should be told why the group feels an intervention is necessary. Group members should describe specific problem behaviors displayed by the subject. They should also explain how the behavior is negatively affecting each of them. For instance, if the subject is addicted to drugs, one member might explain how the subject's drug addiction is setting a bad example for his children.

• 6

  Give a solution and explain consequences. At the close of the intervention the group should tell the subject what they would like him to do for help (such as rehab, therapy or medication). The subject should also be told what the consequences will be if he refuses to take action. For example, an alcoholic might be told that if he does not enter rehab, his wife would file for a separation or divorce.

• 7

  Finally, the meeting should end on a positive note so that the subject does not feel attacked or abandoned. The upcoming periods of change for the subject will be a challenge; therefore, it is important that the group continue to provide guidance and support.