Understanding the Condition
What self-medicating actually means
Self-medicating is the use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances to manage an underlying condition that has not been properly diagnosed or treated. Common drivers include anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, chronic pain, insomnia, and unresolved grief.
It usually starts as something that 'works' — a few drinks to wind down, a joint to sleep, an unprescribed pill to focus. Over time, the brain rewires around the substance, and the underlying condition gets worse instead of better.
Why It Matters
Why self-medicating cases need specialised intervention
Treating only the substance use leaves the underlying condition unaddressed — and relapse is almost inevitable. Treating only the mental health condition without addressing the substance use rarely works either.
Our interventionists are specifically trained in dual diagnosis cases. We help you have the conversation that names both realities — the substance use AND what is underneath it — and we connect your loved one with programs that treat both at once.
Our Approach
How our dual diagnosis interventions work
We start by carefully assessing both the substance use and the underlying mental health or medical condition driving it. That clarity changes everything — including the kind of treatment center we recommend.
Our intervention conversation is structured to acknowledge the pain that is actually fueling the substance use. Your loved one needs to know we see the whole picture, not just the drinking or the pill bottle.
We coordinate placement with treatment programs that have integrated, on-site psychiatric care — not separated outpatient referrals. And we stay involved with your family throughout the recovery journey.
Our Process
A clear, family-centred path forward.
Every intervention follows the same proven structure — adapted to the condition, the family, and the urgency of the situation.
Free Confidential Consultation
A private call with a certified interventionist. We listen, assess, and explain the next step for your family — no obligation, ever.
Family Education & Planning
We help every member of the family understand their role, set healthy boundaries, and prepare for the intervention conversation.
On-site Intervention
Your interventionist meets you in person, leads the conversation, and presents pre-arranged treatment options for an immediate yes.
Treatment & Ongoing Support
We coordinate transport to treatment and stay engaged with the family throughout the recovery journey — long after day one.
Recommended Intervention Types
The intervention services that fit this situation.
Dual Diagnosis Interventions
Substance use and mental health disorders often travel together — and treating one without the other usually leads to relapse. We specialise…
Learn moreMental Health Interventions
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder can be just as life-threatening as addiction — and far harder to confront because shame keep…
Learn moreAlcohol Abuse Interventions
We have helped over 1,000 families confront alcohol abuse and guide their loved one into treatment. Our intervention specialists handle the …
Learn moreStill Have Questions?
Self-Medicating intervention questions, answered.
An intervention is a structured, carefully planned conversation in which family members, friends, and trained professionals come together to encourage someone struggling with addiction or a mental health crisis to accept treatment. We guide every step, from preparation to the moment your loved one says yes.
You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Ready to talk about your loved one's self-medicating?
Your first call is free, confidential, and judgment-free. We listen first — then tell you exactly what comes next.
