What to do After an Intervention

Addiction and mental health are closely linked. It’s important to remember that when someone becomes addicted to a substance or action, the body undergoes changes that affect brain chemistry and behavior. This can lead to many adverse side effects, including diminished impulse control, poor judgment, and difficulty staying focused. It can also affect a person’s relationship with addiction, making quitting harder.

While friends and family members may hope a loved one struggling with addiction or a mental health condition takes steps toward recovery, it may be difficult for the individual to take these steps on their own. This is why mental health and addiction interventions are often the empowering first step in beginning the healing process and making the changes necessary for a healthy life. When an intervention helps an individual take concerns to heart and desire to make changes, they will accept recovery solutions to improve their addiction and/or mental health. This is worthy of celebration, but it is only the beginning of the journey to a happier, healthier life.

After the intervention

Individuals may find excuses to delay or refuse treatment after an intervention, so it is critical to have a plan in place and begin the first step outlined immediately after an intervention takes place. As part of the intervention, a trained interventionist will work with family and friends to research professional recovery solutions and help them prepare to immediately get their loved one into a program or center for recovery. The following strategies can help guide recovering individuals and their loved ones as they begin the healing journey.

Set realistic expectations

Before beginning a post-intervention care plan, the individual and their loved ones should identify goals, expectations, and what they want to accomplish in recovery. Working with experienced recovery professionals who can guide you through the process and help you understand the journey is important for success.

Addiction and mental health conditions are different for each person, and while some struggle with substance use disorder, others have process addiction or mental health disorders. A professional can provide specific information and support to a family based on unique circumstances and needs.