INTERVENTION: GETTING THE ALCOHOLIC INTO TREATMENT

Intervention is a confrontational meeting used to help an alcoholic overcome his or her denial of alcoholism and begin treatment. Before the intervention, the alcoholic's family, friends and employer must overcome their own denial. They must acknowledge that there is a serious alcohol problem. They must be ready to stop making it easy for the alcoholic to continue with his or her behavior. They must decide it is time to get serious and practice "tough love."

It was formerly thought that an alcoholic had to "hit bottom" before he or she would accept treatment. This may mean losing a job, divorce, going bankrupt, getting arrested, or having some other catastrophe. By intervening early, such losses may be prevented. Intervention begins with a series of meetings with the "team." The team consists of the counselor, family members, friends, and concerned persons. Team members must attend all counseling sessions. During these sessions, a careful strategy of confrontation is planned. The alcoholic will be invited to attend only the final meeting.

The first step to helping someone with alcoholism is to learn as much as possible about the disease. You will want to know how alcohol affects the body and why alcoholism is a disease. You will begin to understand why the alcoholic continues to drink. By understanding, you will be able to approach the alcoholic without judgment. This will make it more likely that he does not get defensive and refuses to accept treatment.

Before the alcoholic meets the team, a specific treatment program is selected. The counselor will assess the severity of the alcoholism and will make recommendations for a treatment program. Even alcoholics who deny their problem can be helped with intervention. Be sure to find a counselor that is very experienced with intervention.

To find out more about alcoholism and treatment, contact the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence at (800) NCA-CALL or visit their website at www.ncadd.org. Other resources include your healthcare provider, a school nurse or counselor, Employee Assistance Programs, or contact your local chapters of Al-Anon or Alcoholics Anonymous.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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