Addressing Resistance and Defensiveness in Interventions - Addiction Interventions

• David Gates
• 0 Comments
• May 1, 2023

Addiction can be a devastating condition that affects not only the individual struggling with it but also their loved ones. For many families, the process of staging an intervention can be a lifeline in helping their loved one get the help they need. However, interventions can be challenging, especially when the individual is resistant or defensive.

In this blog, we will explore how to address resistance and defensiveness in interventions and how Family Interventions can help.

What Is an Intervention?

An intervention is a carefully planned process in which loved ones confront someone struggling with addiction about their destructive behaviors and the need for treatment. The goal of an intervention is to help the person see how their addiction is impacting themselves and others and encourage them to seek help.

Why Do People Become Defensive during an Intervention?

Addiction is a complex and deeply personal issue. When someone is confronted with their addiction, they may feel attacked, ashamed, or embarrassed. They may also feel like they’re being judged or misunderstood, which can lead to defensiveness. It’s essential to remember that defensiveness is a natural response to feeling threatened or vulnerable.

How Can You Address Resistance and Defensiveness in Interventions?

Here are a few suggestions on how to best address resistance and defensiveness when it comes to interventions:

Seek Professional Help

One of the most effective ways to address resistance and defensiveness during an intervention is to seek professional help. An intervention specialist can help guide you through the process, provide valuable insight and advice, and help manage the emotions that may arise during the intervention. Family Interventions can provide the necessary support and guidance throughout the entire intervention process.

Be Prepared

It’s essential to be prepared for the intervention. This means taking the time to research addiction and treatment options, creating a script, and identifying specific examples of how the addiction has impacted the individual and their loved ones. Being prepared can help you stay focused and on track during the intervention and reduce the chances of becoming emotional or reactive.

Avoid Blame and Judgment

When staging an intervention, it’s crucial to avoid blaming or judging the individual for their addiction. This can lead to defensiveness and shut down any chance of open communication. Instead, it’s best to focus on how the addiction has affected you and others and to express your concern and support for the individual.

Be Compassionate

It’s essential to approach the intervention process with compassion and empathy. Remember that addiction is a disease, and the individual struggling with it is not a bad person. Express your love and concern for them, and let them know that you’re there to support them in their journey toward recovery.

Set Boundaries

If the individual is resistant to seeking treatment, it’s essential to set boundaries. This can include consequences for their behavior, such as cutting off financial support or limiting contact until they seek help. Setting boundaries can be difficult, but it’s essential to be firm in your decision to help the individual get the help they need.

Family Interventions is a team of experienced intervention specialists who have helped countless families and individuals struggling with addiction. We understand the complexities of addiction and the challenges that come with staging an intervention. Our team provides a compassionate, non-judgmental, and personalized approach to every intervention, helping families and individuals find the support and resources they need to begin their journey toward recovery. Contact us today for more information or to set up a formal intervention.