Drug and Alcohol Intervention in South Florida – Ambrosia
We know that getting someone you love the treatment they need but don’t want because of their substance addiction can be very difficult. After all, addiction is a disease that affects the mind. Often, the person struggling is unaware or is not able to realize the destruction and anguish that their actions have caused in their lives and their families.
The cycle of addiction is a physical, emotional, financial, and long and taxing process. The repercussions can harm a person’s physical and mental well-being, leading to life-threatening outcomes.
Fortunately, some available treatments and interventions can assist those struggling with addiction and mental illness to achieve healthier and more fulfilling lives. Ambrosia in South Florida supports families with drug and alcohol intervention services and offers comprehensive care with compassion and empathy, evidence-based practices, and many years of experience with addiction treatment and recovery.
An interventionist may also oversee the intervention, which may involve a member of a person’s community or other concerned individuals. This gathering aims to confront the individual struggling, discuss the impact of their addiction, and encourage them to seek treatment. An intervention also does the following:
- Presents instances of harmful actions and their impact on your addicted loved one, as well as on the surrounding family and friends.
- Presents a structured treatment strategy with defined steps, objectives, and instructions.
- Outlines the actions each individual will take if your loved one refuses treatment.
Interventions play a crucial role in aiding individuals struggling with addiction. Those caught in the throes of drug or alcohol dependency often struggle to comprehend their situation, making it challenging for them to recognize the need for assistance. Providing proper care to someone battling addiction is essential for their journey towards recovery. Moreover, an intervention can serve as the pivotal moment that initiates positive change in their life.
How Do Drug and Alcohol Interventions Work?
First, we begin with a phone call to discuss the details of the person who is addicted. Second, we get to know the history of their addiction. We also talk about any previous attempts at getting sober. Third, we schedule a family meeting. These meetings will be ongoing for six months.
Addiction and mental disorders do not happen in a vacuum. Everyone around the loved one suffers. This is why our approach includes the whole family. As a result, everyone can begin to heal. We teach the family that everyone’s feelings and experiences are valid. We teach the family new ways to talk with each other. All in all, we instill hope, motivation, and new coping skills. Thus, this makes everyone stronger.
We invite the person with the addiction to attend each meeting. In addition, we offer ongoing options for them to enter treatment. The addiction interventionist works with multiple people. For example, the first is with the client. Then, the second is their family.
We work with the treatment center the loved one enters. Therefore, all of this helps ensure they complete their treatment program. As a result, this, in turn, helps increase the chances the person will avoid relapse.
Our interventionists bring years of experience to the table. Additionally, they train to offer things like crisis intervention, person-centered intervention, and 12-step program-centered assistance. Furthermore, the empathy and caring nature of each professional shines through. Last, we understand the importance of confidentiality, hence our services remain private to protect those we serve.
What to Expect During A Drug and Alcohol Intervention
As mentioned above, substance abuse is a significant problem that impacts individuals across various age groups and backgrounds. Its extensive effects spare no one. The destructive behaviors impact not just the person using drugs and alcohol, but also the entire family and close friends.
However, the probability of success without professional guidance and support is far less than with the interventionist’s help. These professional men and women can help guide the family through the process of providing the option for their loved one. They can also help the loved ones of the substance user to understand the nature of addiction. Last but not least, they can educate them on how it affects the family and the person struggling.
Anyone can say they get results, but we have the data to back it up. Fortunately, people who use our program get good results. Studies show when someone uses our drug and alcohol intervention program, their lives change for the better. Results from using our service have shown the following:
- Over 83% of people go into treatment within just 3 weeks
- Within 6 months, 96% enter treatment
- At the 1-year mark, 61% of people still live a sober life
- Another 10% have an improved rate of sobriety
Those struggling with addiction often resist acknowledging their situation and are unwilling to seek treatment. They may overlook the negative consequences of their actions on themselves and others. An intervention offers a chance for your loved one to make changes before the situation worsens. It also provides an opportunity to accept help. Here is what to expect during an intervention at Ambrosia in South Florida.
A family member or friend proposes an intervention and establishes a planning committee. It is advisable to collaborate with a qualified professional, such as a therapist, addiction specialist, psychologist, mental health counselor, social worker, or interventionist, to assist in coordinating an effective intervention. Interventions are emotionally charged situations that may provoke anger, resentment, or feelings of betrayal.
The committee members investigate the extent of your loved one’s problem and explore the underlying causes and potential treatment options. They may also arrange for your loved one to enter a treatment program.
The planning committee assembles a team to participate in the intervention. Team members select a date and location, and collaborate to deliver a unified, rehearsed message and a structured plan. Often, non-family team members help maintain focus on the issue’s facts and shared solutions, rather than emotional reactions. It is important not to inform your loved one about the intervention until the day it takes place.
If your loved one refuses treatment, each team member must determine the course of action they will take. For instance, you may decide to request that your loved one move out.
Each team member should recount particular instances where the addiction led to problems, whether emotional or financial. Address the impact of your loved one’s actions with empathy, while also expressing hope for change. Your loved one should not be able to dispute the facts or your emotional reactions. For instance, you could start by saying, “I felt upset and disappointed when you engaged in…”
Invite your loved one struggling with addiction to a designated intervention location without revealing the purpose. Team members will then express their concerns and emotions in turns. Present your loved one with a treatment option and request an immediate decision. Each team member should outline the changes they will implement if the proposed plan is rejected. Only commit to actions you are prepared to follow through with.
Involving a spouse, family members, or other individuals is crucial in supporting someone with addiction through treatment and preventing relapse. This may involve altering daily routines to avoid triggers, participating in counseling sessions with your loved one, seeking your own therapy and recovery assistance, and understanding how to respond if your loved one experiences setbacks.
Collaborating with a specialist in addiction, such as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, social worker, psychologist, psychiatrist, or interventionist, can assist in orchestrating a successful intervention. The addiction professional will assess the situation of your loved one, recommend the most suitable approach, and guide the most effective treatment and follow-up plan.
Frequently, interventions are carried out without the involvement of a professional. However, seeking expert assistance may be the most beneficial option. In some cases, the intervention may even take place at the professional’s office. Having an interventionist present can be crucial, especially if your loved one:
- Has a history of severe mental illness.
- Has a history of violence.
- Has attempted suicide or expressed suicidal thoughts recently.
- Is using multiple mood-altering substances.
Careful planning is essential for a successful intervention to achieve its intended outcome. Conversely, a poorly planned intervention has the potential to exacerbate the situation, leading to feelings of attack, isolation, or increased resistance to treatment in your loved one. It is essential to work alongside a professional for the intervention to be successful.
Types of Interventions
Using one of the different types of interventions to help a loved one recover from addiction is a loving endeavor. Sometimes that is what it takes for someone who is struggling to get the help that they so desperately need. However, understanding each of the forms of interventions and how they work will help determine what will work best for a particular individual.
​​Each of the types of interventions requires planning and delicate execution. These help them to successfully engage the individual in the process. An interventionist is trained in the processes and procedures involved. A family-planned intervention could potentially lead to their loved one accepting the much-needed help.
Several types of interventions have been proven to be effective in the lives of individuals struggling with substances. Implementing these without the professional guidance of an interventionist is not advised, as it can go off track without a neutral party to assist in the process. The odds of a person accepting help are higher with the assistance of these trained professionals. The types of drug and alcohol interventions are as follows:
Not every type of intervention is like they portray in television shows. Gathering all of the person’s close friends and relatives, confronting them when the facts, and then trying to help them decide to receive help isn’t the only type. In a simple intervention, a single person just bringing up the issue could be the catalyst to the individual seeking help. These can be effective with or without the help of a professional.
Classic interventions are a type of intervention that incorporates the Johnson Model. These are more like the ones that are seen in television shows, and the more commonly thought of form of intervention. They involve planning and execution to assist the person who is struggling with addiction through the process of accepting help. The setting should be calm and focused. This type of intervention is best done with an interventionist. Here, they can help prepare the family for all possible outcomes and set up a process for successful intervention with their loved one.
These types of interventions assist in the family unit healing while simultaneously addressing a loved one’s struggles. They focus on the family dynamic. Compulsions, codependence, and other family struggles. The professional interventionist helps the family to begin healing as they also help the loved one choose a path to recovery. The family begins to participate in different training processes that can continue after the intervention.
These are necessary when the loved one becomes a danger to themself or another person. They often occur when a mental health or behavioral crisis begins, and provide a short-term solution to the bigger issue. They provide immediate help to handle stresses and traumas. These types of interventions help to prevent tragedy from occurring as a result of addiction to substances.
The most common technique used in interventions is the Johnson Model. This consists of seven different components that provide the best structure for the types of interventions to be successful. It includes a mediation crew, and planning, is care-focused for patients, and contains notes and proof of their addiction.
Overall, they focus only on addiction, but therapy is the main focus for the person struggling, providing options for treatment. This structure of the Johnson Model makes it crucial for the interventionist to be present to help create the best environment for these interventions to take place.
Generally, integrated treatment is more effective than separate treatment for co-occurring mental health issues and substance use disorders. Dual diagnosis treatment focuses on treating the individual as a whole by addressing both disorders simultaneously. Effective treatment strategies encompass integrated assessment and diagnosis, coordinated treatment planning, evidence-based treatment modalities, individualized therapy, a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments, as well as support system involvement and education.
What is Early Intervention?
Once the problem is acknowledged, early intervention becomes a valuable resource in mitigating the potential risks linked to prolonged substance use disorders. The lasting consequences of substance abuse can significantly affect one’s physical and mental well-being, relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Early intervention has the power to halt this destructive cycle.
When family members worry about someone they love, they want to know how to help. Furthermore, when addiction is the problem, the family often feels at a loss for what to do. For this reason, we offer a solution to help everyone succeed. Thus, an addiction interventionist from Ambrosia gets to know the family and how substance abuse impacts them.
The Value of Early Intervention for Substance Abuse
Studies have demonstrated that early intervention is key in stopping substance abuse from progressing into a full-blown addiction. Timely intervention for substance abuse can assist individuals before their substance misuse escalates or inflicts further damage. It can aid individuals in reducing their substance intake before they develop a dependency, and can enhance their overall health and capacity to function effectively. Early intervention can also play a role in preventing substance misuse from evolving into a substance use disorder (SUD) or from worsening.
The earlier a substance use problem is detected, the higher the chances of conquering it. Moreover, early intervention programs can assist in steering clear of the adverse effects of substance abuse, such as damaged relationships, limited job prospects, or potential legal issues. As mentioned, an intervention can prevent the progression of addiction. Ignoring an issue will not cause it to disappear.
The battle against substance abuse is widespread and destructive, and it tends to escalate over time. The crucial step in stopping substance abuse from consuming our lives and destroying every aspect of it is to seek assistance promptly.
Recognizing early warning signs of substance dependency or addiction can be the difference between life and death. The impact of early intervention can result in long-term recovery and successful sobriety outcomes.
How an Interventionist Helps Facilitate Healing
When it comes to interventions, they are helpful for addiction. When someone is in the grips of active addiction to drugs or alcohol, it can be difficult for them to understand what’s happening. Therefore, they may not fully understand how much they may need help. An individual receiving proper care during addiction is vital to being able to make it out on the other side. Additionally, an intervention can be the catalyst for this process to begin in their life.
The probability of success without professional guidance and support is far less than with the interventionist’s help. These medical professionals can help guide the family through the process of providing access to care for their loved one. Interventionists can also help the loved ones of the substance user to understand the nature of addiction. Lastly, they can educate them on how it affects the family and the person struggling. An addiction interventionist can help people who struggle with substance use disorders including alcohol, cocaine, heroin, meth, opioids, fentanyl, prescription drugs, stimulants, hallucinogens, inhalants, etc.
In addition, qualified interventions can help with other conditions such as process addictions (gambling) and mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc.
At Ambrosia in South Florida, our addiction interventionists go beyond this process. For starters, we step in when all else fails. On the other hand, for others, we provide help before the family exhausts themselves with several intervention attempts. Then, we stick with the family for 6 months.
In addition, our multiple services help keep the focus on recovery. What is more, we help keep on top of things after the individual goes into treatment. Because of this, their continuing care has the best chance for success.
Services offered include not just personalized case management. We can provide safe transportation to treatment. Along with that, we offer coaching, companionship, and monitoring of progress made.
Our interventionists are certified in their field. They attend comprehensive workshops that teach them about addiction and how it impacts individuals and their families. In addition, they learn relevant research and how to maintain the professional ethics of this field. They serve internships before becoming certified. As a result, they possess great knowledge of how to help those who need it the most.
Ambrosia’s Continuing Care Plan
Our addiction interventionists help the person once they leave treatment. By this, we help them identify triggers that can cause a relapse. Then, we guide them in cutting out toxic relationships. This allows them to enjoy being around people who support their recovery.
Furthermore, we strongly encourage attending self-help meetings. These include groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Moreover, we help the person focus on getting healthy in other ways. For example, these ways include eating healthy and regular exercise. We also help them take care of their mental health.
We also continue to keep the family in focus after the loved one begins treatment. To add, we help them develop and commit to recovery strategies for the entire family unit. This includes encouraging everyone to attend family therapy and support groups. Then, when each family member works on themselves, everyone benefits from it as a unit.
What If Your Loved One Doesn’t Accept Help?
Frequently, children, partners, siblings, and parents endure abuse, violence, threats, and emotional turmoil due to alcohol and drug problems. You cannot control the actions of your addicted loved one, but you can remove yourself — and any children — from a harmful environment.
Even if an intervention is unsuccessful, you and others in your loved one’s life can make adjustments that could be beneficial. Encourage those involved not to enable destructive behaviors and take steps towards positive change.
Save A Life And Set Up An Intervention With Us Today
With thousands of addiction success stories, a history of multiple- accreditations, 5-star reviews, evidence-based dual diagnosis, and trauma treatment, we can help. Learn more about us and why we’re one of the top behavioral health rehab centers in South Florida. Our dedicated counselors will help clients develop a comprehensive treatment plan along with the next steps to get their loved ones the care they need.
If you have any questions about preparing for a successful drug and alcohol addiction intervention, visit our rehab admissions page today. Let our behavioral health specialists and interventionists help you. Get started by contacting us today.
Dr. Alam is an internationally renowned psychiatrist with academic affiliations with Northwestern University and University of Illinois, Chicago where he completed his residency training. He has been a principal investigator for over forty studies and has been involved in research leading to the approval of most psychiatric medications currently on the market. He is the founder of the Neuroscience Research Institute which continues to conduct research on cutting edge medication and interventional psychiatry. Dr. Alam is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. He has won several awards and has been featured extensively on radio and television.
