In the majority of cases, a person abusing a drug or alcohol does not realize they have a problem. He/she may look at those around him/her and believe he is no different that his/her drug using friends. This is where a person needs a caring person to provide them with feedback on their behavior.

Today, the statement, “A person must hit bottom before asking for help” is not necessarily true in today’s society. Throughout research and education, a professional counselor can inspire an addict to seek help and start on the road to recovery. This is what is known as drug and alcohol abuse intervention.

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Intervention is a process that shows an addict the degree of his/her problem so they can recognize they actually have a drug or alcohol abuse problem. The Drug and Alcohol Abuse Intervention is a nonjudgmental and non-critical orderly method. The addict is often hit with the realization of what their addiction is doing to others in their family and their friends. The goal of the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Intervention is to have the person realize and accept they have a drug or alcohol abuse problem and to find help.

Many people ask if a drug addict or alcoholic refuses to get help, how can they help. The sad news is that of course, you cannot force an addict to seek help. If the situation becomes violent and the police are called, then help can be found through the legal justice system. You can still help a person that is abusing drugs or alcohol by following a few steps often used with Drug and Alcohol Abuse Intervention

The very first thing you must do is stop helping. Many people do not want to see their loved one suffer so they contribute by taking them to purchase the drug, give them money, or even buy the drug for them. This is the very wrong way to go. It is very important that you stop all ways of rescue. The addict must feel the harmful effects of his/her addiction in most situations.

Enabling is pretty much the same as rescue. Some of the ways family members enable an addict is by letting him come and go as he pleases, bail him out of jail, pay his bills, etc… In a way, this is giving him a reward for being bad.

Choose the time for you drug and alcohol abuse intervention. It would be best if you want until the person is straight or sober. This is when they may have a clear mind. Also talk with the person in private; never talk about their addiction in front of a crowd.

Be straightforward in your Drug and Alcohol Abuse Intervention. Let them know you are worried about the drug or alcohol abuse and you to help them find the help they need to become drug or alcohol free. If at all possible, mention ways in which their addiction has caused you pain or suffering. If the person is ready to listen, they will ask for help at which time you will be able to take them for detoxification.