Have you heard about intervention? Friends and family of an alcoholic or drug addict get together and confront the addicted person. By doing this, they hope to convince this person to enter some type of rehabilitation program. The ultimate goal, of course, is that their loved-one will get free of the addiction.

Within the past 50 years, much has changed regarding suggestions on how to deal with an addicted person. At one time, it was believed that a person addicted to a mind-altering substance should be allowed to use the substance until he or she had reached a “bottom” and desired to quit. Because there have been so many deaths related to alcohol and drug abuse, it has become more acceptable to intervene.

Although discussing addiction used to be done privately and in hushed tones, now there are even television programs that deal with this subject. Self-help books are available that deal with addictions to everything from food to sex and shopping. Libraries and book stores carry literature about 12-step groups including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Emotions Anonymous, Sex Addicts Anonymous, Over-Eaters Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, and Co-Dependents Anonymous.

If someone you care about seems to have an addiction, the best way to start helping that person is for you to learn more about addiction. There are groups for those who have friends or relatives with an addiction. Attending meetings and reading literature will help you learn how to cope and give you tips on intervention.

Depending on the urgency of the situation, you might consider speaking to a therapist who works with alcoholics and drug addicts. If your friend or relative is in imminent danger, there may be legal action to get that person admitted to a hospital for treatment.

Intervention sometimes involves more than just friends and relatives. If your loved-one has a trusted pastor, intervention could include him also. Perhaps your loved-one has been involved in a recovery program, but has recently relapsed. Involving the addict’s sponsor or therapist might also be helpful.

Just remember, there is still hope for your loved-one. Don’t be discouraged and definitely don’t give up. Many inpatient programs are available including some that will even admit a person with little or no income or insurance.

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