You see your loved one struggling every day because of their substance use disorder (SUD), and it’s heartbreaking. You want to help, make it better, and just wish they would “stop.” It’s not that easy, for them or for you.
What makes addiction treatment difficult for family members is the seemingly simple solution – to just stop using the substance. Yet, the reality is, SUDs are like any other disease. They take refined treatment and specialized care. Considering that standpoint, know that you may not be helpless in the process of getting your family member help.
The Importance and Need for Intervention
An intervention is a carefully planned process where family and friends come together with the support of a treatment provider or counselor. It is an opportunity to present a solution to a person with an SUD, but it must focus on the following:
- Showing respect and support for the individual
- Provide a structured way for your loved one to get into a treatment plan
- Communication and strategy built with the help of an addiction treatment center
- A clear and meaningful statement of what loved ones will do and what they will no longer do
- Putting the power of change in the hands of your loved one by giving them the tools to make it happen
It is not common for family members to be able to force someone into treatment legally. That doesn’t mean you have to sit back and watch them suffer. Instead of focusing on what they will not do, create a plan that provides them with authentic, actionable steps they can choose to take with your support.
Steps to Take to Help Your Family Member Get Treatment
Remember a few key rules.
- You cannot force them to do something they do not want to do.
- You should never make threats that you will not uphold.
- Avoid promising to be somewhere when you will not be able to be there.
Considering those aspects, focus on this plan to help your loved one through addiction treatment.
#1. Contact a Treatment Center
A treatment center, such as The Ranch at Dove Tree in Lubbock, can provide you with the information you need to get started. This process may involve verifying insurance coverage and ensuring you trust the treatment center. Be sure you’ve researched the treatment center and believe it offers the type and level of support your loved one needs.
- Read reviews of the treatment center on Google Reviews and other sites
- Learn what types of programs they offer
- Explore the mission and focus of the treatment center
Set up a conversation with the admissions team to determine if they have available space and can assist your loved one. It’s always a good idea to work out a plan openly, informing the treatment center of your steps. They become your ally in this process.
#2. Determine What You Can Do to Help
For a person facing a life-changing disease like substance use disorder, the inability to get treatment sometimes falls on the shoulders of life’s limitations. Show them how they CAN get help.
- Does the individual have minor children? If so, demonstrate a realistic plan for who will care for the child while they enter treatment.
- If the individual has a job, avoid discussing it with the employer. However, determine if they may qualify for Family Medical Leave, which provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave from a position for immediate healthcare needs.
- Do they have financial obligations? If so, show them how they can afford to take time off to get into treatment. Can you fundraise to support their treatment needs and costs?
#3: Host a Conversation
The final step is to present this plan to your loved one and demonstrate exactly how they can get the help they need. Your loved one needs substance use treatment, and with this conversation, you can show them they can get it. Focus on these steps with the guidance of the counselor and treatment team you’ve talked to.
- Bring together a few people who truly care about the individual. However, limit this to people who your loved one respects and trusts, and those who genuinely have good intentions.
- Inform them of the treatment plan opportunity, what could happen, and how it will work for them.
- State what you will and will not do. Ensure a clear line is drawn in the sand. If they do not get treatment, what will happen? Focus on what will happen to your relationship with them. Do not say anything you don’t believe in.
Avoid making empty promises, but do provide information about why this is important to you. What have you seen happen to them? What would you like to see happen? Be honest and straightforward.
Learn How The Ranch at Dove Tree Can Help You
Turn to The Ranch at Dove Tree for guidance in this process. Our team is committed to providing you with exceptional support throughout this process. Contact us now to learn more.
