I’m often asked by family members if it is wise to attempt an intervention on their own, without the presence or involvement of an intervention specialist. I typically respond to this question by letting them know that they probably have already done multiple interventions in the past, yet never knew it. After all, at its most basic level, an intervention occurs whenever a friend or family member makes an attempt to alter the addict’s diseased behavior and suggests treatment.

The problem with such informal intervention attempts is that the family member or friend never really has a chance to succeed. The reality is that most addicts are far too gifted in the area of minimalizing, rationalizing, denial, deflection, and outright lying. These traits have been brilliantly crafted and will be called upon to defeat most any request for treatment.

So, back to the original question. Should we (family/friends of the addict) try an intervention on our own? I’d say “no” unless there is a strong intervention team in place and they all have been properly informed by an intervention specialist regarding all aspects of the intervention process, including, but not limited to, treatment facility selection, what to say during the intervention, risk factors and objections. If you are interested in organizing and performing an intervention on your own click here for helpful information on how this can be accomplished.

While I believe families, if properly coached, can successfully perform interventions on their own, the best option is to go forward with an intervention specialist from start to finish. The downside of a botched intervention can be catastrophic. Addiction has been described as a progressive, chronic, and, in many cases, a fatal disease. Simply put, good things are not in store for those suffering from addictive disorders. Given the dire consequences of untreated addiction following an unsuccessful intervention, I recommend families seriously consider using an intervention specialist before attempting an intervention on their own.

Whether the family obtains consultation from an intervention specialist and goes forward with the intervention on their own, or hires an intervention specialist from start to finish, an intervention is the most loving and caring act family and friends can do for the addict suffering from addiction. It is a loving statement by the family that offers to end the misery and suffering that defines addiction and provides treatment as a gift so that the addict may begin the process of enjoying life reather than enduring it.

For more information about interventions, visit Steven Lodge Interventions.