Last Updated:
February 17th, 2025
Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction can leave you feeling helpless but an intervention could be the lifeline they need to start turning things around. It’s a powerful way to show your support and encourage them to take steps toward recovery.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about interventions, equipping you with the tools to make a meaningful difference.
What is an intervention?
An intervention is a carefully planned conversation designed to help someone struggling with addiction recognise the impact their actions are having on themselves and their loved ones. The goal is to encourage the individual to accept the need for support and take the first step towards recovery.
Sometimes with the aid of professionals, Interventions often involve close family members and/or friends coming together in a non-judgmental setting to express their concerns and offer help. The main aim of an intervention is not to congregate into an angry mob, negatively confronting the person but about showing the person that they’re cared for and that recovery is possible with the right support.
When is the right time to hold an intervention?
The right time for an intervention is whenever you feel that someone’s relationship with substances or harmful behaviours is becoming concerning. Interventions can take place at any stage of a person’s dependency cycle, whether they’re just beginning to show signs of a problem or are already experiencing significant consequences in their life.
For example, an intervention might be needed when a person starts displaying destructive behaviours that affect their health, relationships or work. On the other hand, if you sense that someone is at the early stages of addiction, a timely intervention can help prevent things from escalating further. The key is acting with care and urgency, showing the individual that they’re supported and that recovery is possible, no matter where they are in their journey.
If you’re unsure of when the right time to hold an intervention is, you can start by focusing on your loved one’s behaviours. If they’ve shown any of the following behaviours, it may be time to consider holding an intervention:
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home due to their substance use or addiction.
- Isolating themselves from friends and family, avoiding social interactions or becoming withdrawn.
- Engaging in risky or dangerous activities, such as driving under the influence, or spending excessive money on gambling or substances.
- Showing signs of financial difficulties, like accumulating debt or borrowing money to support their addiction.
- Exhibiting mood swings or changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability, aggression or depression.
- Prioritising their addiction over important relationships, hobbies or daily obligations.
- Downplaying or denying their behaviour, even when confronted with its negative consequences.
Can an intervention be used for all types of addictions?
An intervention can be used for all types of addictions, not just those where drug addiction or alcohol addiction may be the main issues. While substance abuse is often the first thing people associate with interventions, they’re equally effective for behavioural addictions that can cause significant harm if left unaddressed.
For instance, a gambling addiction that’s seriously impacting a person’s financial situation (and potentially their family’s well-being) may require immediate intervention to prevent further damage.
Similarly, behavioural addictions like pornography or gaming can reach a point where they start to interfere with work, family commitments and other important areas of life. In these cases, a timely and caring intervention can help the individual see the extent of the problem and encourage them to seek support before it worsens.
Can an intervention become dangerous?
There are potential dangers involved in holding an intervention and it’s important to approach the situation with care and preparation. While the goal is to help your loved one, interventions can sometimes bring up strong emotions or unexpected behaviours, especially if the person is under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time.
For instance, they might react with anger, aggression or even violence, which could put you and others in immediate danger. In some cases, they may attempt to escape the situation, which can lead to further harm or risk to themselves. These reactions don’t mean the person is beyond help, but they highlight the challenges that can arise during this sensitive process.
With this in mind, we encourage you to read our next section, where we provide tips on what to do and what not to do, during an intervention to ensure it’s as safe and effective as possible.
The do’s and don’ts of holding a successful intervention
Anyone can hold an intervention but not everyone can do it successfully. A well-planned intervention takes thought and preparation to ensure it’s effective. To help you through this process, here are some key do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
✅ Do: plan ahead
Take time to carefully plan the intervention, including what to say, who will be involved and where it will take place. A well-structured approach reduces the chances of things going wrong.
✅ Do: choose the right time
Hold the intervention when the person is sober or as clear-headed as possible. This increases the likelihood they’ll be open to listening and less reactive.
✅ Do: keep the tone supportive
Focus on expressing concern and love rather than blame or anger. Let them know the intervention is coming from a place of care and a desire to see them thrive.
✅ Do: use specific examples
Share real examples of how their behaviour has impacted you and others. This makes your concerns more relatable and harder to dismiss.
✅ Do: have a clear goal
Be prepared to offer solutions, such as treatment options or professional help and make it clear how you’re willing to support them moving forward.
✅ Do: consider professional help
If you’re unsure how to manage an intervention or are concerned about safety, involving a professional interventionist can make the process smoother and safer.
❌ Don’t: hold it without preparation
Going into an intervention without a plan can lead to confusion and escalate emotions, reducing its effectiveness.
❌ Don’t: confront them while they’re under the influence
Intervening when the person is intoxicated increases the chances of negative reactions, such as aggression or denial.
❌ Don’t: gang up on them
Avoid making the person feel attacked by overwhelming them with accusations or too many people at once. A smaller, supportive group is often more effective.
❌ Don’t: use shaming language
Avoid comments that make the person feel judged, worthless or hopeless, as this can push them further into denial or isolation. For example:
- “You’re ruining everyone’s life with your behaviour.”
- “You should be ashamed of yourself for what you’ve done.”
- “You’re just a failure because of this addiction.”
Instead, focus on empathetic and supportive language, such as:
- “We’re really worried about how this is affecting you and everyone around you.”
- “We care about you and want to help you through this.”
❌ Don’t: force an immediate decision
While you should present clear solutions, avoid pressuring them to decide on the spot. Allow time for the message to sink in.
❌ Don’t: give up after one attempt
If the intervention doesn’t go as planned, don’t see it as a failure. It’s often the first step in planting a seed for change and persistence can make all the difference.
It’s vital to be aware that if the likelihood of a successful intervention decreases or it becomes too difficult to manage on your own, consider seeking help from a professional interventionist to guide you through the process.
What if the intervention wasn’t a success?
If an intervention hasn’t gone as planned, it’s important to remember this isn’t your fault and it doesn’t mean your loved one is beyond help. It simply highlights the need for additional support from professionals who can guide you through the process.
Interventions are emotionally complex and often benefit from specialist involvement to ensure they’re approached effectively and safely. These experts can provide structure and support, helping you navigate this crucial step toward addiction recovery.
While Primrose Lodge doesn’t directly offer intervention services, we’re here to support your loved one’s recovery journey. We provide tailored rehab programmes that include detox to manage any withdrawals and therapy to address the root causes of both substance and behavioural addictions.
If you’re seeking addiction help or guidance on interventions, we’re ready to guide you and your loved one toward a healthier, addiction-free life.
