If you or a loved one are currently living with or have lived with addiction, you know how difficult it can be to keep your life in order. Substance use disorder can complicate all aspects of daily living. This is especially true for people who have a mental health diagnosis in addition to a diagnosis of substance use disorder.
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Many people who live with an addiction to drugs or alcohol seem to move from one stressful situation to another. As a caring friend or family member, it can be hard to know when outside help is needed. This is especially true if your loved one is in denial of their addiction or their additional mental health issues.
Here, we’ll learn more about crisis intervention, and how to know if your loved one is in need of help from an intervention specialist.
Clinically, crisis intervention is the creation of a change that provides immediate support and care for a person who is under extreme physical, psychological, or emotional stress.
People who do not live with substance use disorder may experience crises such as death, job loss, illness, mental health issues, end of a relationship, or severe financial hardships. Without substance abuse issues, many people are able to lean on their established healthcare providers and support systems and get through a crisis without outside help.
For people who live with substance use disorder, crises can become more complicated. A person who suffers from addiction may find themselves in crisis situations more often than someone who is not managing addiction.
Dealing with a crisis in the midst of addiction can be especially challenging. Withdrawal symptoms, homelessness, legal issues, financial difficulties, relationship problems, and other issues can make an already challenging crisis even more difficult.
In the field of addiction care, crisis intervention works to stabilize those who are in an active crisis before transitioning them to a longer-term plan.
When someone you love is living with addiction, it can be hard to determine when they’re experiencing a crisis. Many people who suffer from addiction find themselves trapped in a cycle of lies, and may make up stories in order to manipulate those around them with the end goal of continuing to use their substance of choice.
Signs of crisis in a person who is struggling with addiction may include:
When someone you love is in crisis, it can be scary to imagine what might happen if they don’t get the help they need. Depending on the situation, you may be able to work with law enforcement to have your loved one placed under an involuntary psychiatric hold, allowing a few days for them to be supervised by and receive treatment from medical professionals.
Speak with a certified addiction professional now and get answers to commonly asked questions today!
Your loved one’s treatment team and/or professional interventionist will determine what crisis intervention techniques make the most sense for their situation.
Modes of crisis intervention treatment will differ for each client. For most clients, the first step of crisis intervention is to perform psychological first aid (assuming there is no immediate need for physical medical care).
Your loved one’s crisis interventionist will talk with your loved one to understand the crisis, allowing them to get a grasp on your loved one’s situation. Crisis interventionists are trained to serve as a non-judgemental sounding board when the time is right. A judgment-free listening ear can go a long way in times of crisis.
Your loved one’s interventionist will also ask questions that will allow them to assess your loved one’s state of mind. From there, they’ll be able to develop a plan that will help your loved one through their crisis, hopefully enabling them to move forward to non-crisis counseling.
There are three traditional crisis intervention models: the equilibrium model, the cognitive model, and the psychosocial transition model. Each model of treatment is appropriate for a different stage of the crisis process.
A formal intervention is a carefully planned process where family members, friends, and an intervention team work together to confront a person struggling with a mental health disorder, alcohol use disorder, or substance abuse. The goal is to encourage the individual to seek professional treatment.
An intervention helps by breaking through denial and encouraging the person struggling with an alcohol use disorder to seek treatment. It highlights the negative impact of their behavior and emphasizes the need for professional help to start the recovery process.
Family members play a crucial role in an intervention by providing emotional support, sharing their concerns, and helping the person struggling to see the need for treatment. Their involvement is essential for a successful intervention.
An intervention team typically includes therapists, counselors, addiction specialists, and sometimes healthcare professionals. They guide the intervention process and provide expertise to ensure it is conducted effectively.
Interventions can address a range of issues, including mental health disorders, alcohol use disorders, substance abuse, serious mental illness, drug addiction, and alcohol addiction.
A carefully planned process ensures the intervention is supportive, structured, and effective. It helps anticipate potential reactions and prepares the intervention team to handle any challenges that arise.
The recovery process involves several stages, including detoxification, therapy, and ongoing support. It often includes participation in treatment programs and support groups to maintain sobriety and mental health.
Treatment centers provide a structured environment for recovery, offering medical care, therapy, and support services. They are essential for helping individuals with substance abuse or mental health disorders start and maintain their recovery journey.
Family therapy sessions help improve communication, address underlying issues, and provide support for both the person struggling and their family members. This can strengthen the family unit and enhance the recovery process.
Support groups offer a safe space for individuals to share experiences, receive encouragement, and learn from others facing similar challenges. They are a vital part of maintaining long-term sobriety and mental health.
Yes, interventions can be effective for serious mental illness by encouraging individuals to seek appropriate mental health treatment, which is crucial for managing their condition.
Finding the right treatment program involves researching various options, considering the individual’s specific needs, and consulting with healthcare professionals. Treatment centers can provide recommendations and tailor programs to fit the person’s situation.
A successful intervention is one where the individual agrees to seek treatment and begins the recovery process. Success is often measured by the individual’s commitment to treatment and subsequent improvements in their condition.
Interventions for co-occurring disorders involve a comprehensive approach that addresses both issues simultaneously. Treatment programs often integrate mental health and substance abuse care to provide holistic support.
Family members should expect to be actively involved in planning, executing, and supporting the individual throughout the intervention and treatment process. Their role is crucial for providing emotional support and ensuring the individual’s commitment to recovery.
Yes, interventions can help individuals struggling with both drug and alcohol addiction by encouraging them to seek treatment and start the recovery process. Treatment centers often offer programs that address multiple types of substance abuse.
Mental health is a critical aspect of interventions. Addressing mental health disorders is essential for the overall well-being of the individual and can significantly improve the chances of a successful intervention and recovery.
Signs that someone might need an intervention include drastic changes in behavior, neglecting responsibilities, withdrawal from family and friends, increased substance use, and worsening mental health symptoms.
Preparing for a formal intervention involves planning with the intervention team, deciding on what to say, anticipating the individual’s reactions, and ensuring that treatment options are readily available.
Ongoing support is crucial for maintaining sobriety and mental health after an intervention. It helps the individual navigate challenges, stay committed to their recovery, and build a healthier, more stable life.
If you think that your loved one may be in crisis, it’s important that you don’t want to get help. At Addiction Interventions, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today for a free consultation with a trained interventionist. We believe in your loved one’s ability to get well — contact us today to learn more.
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