10 Signs Your Loved One Needs an Interventionist: How to Recognize and Act

Is your friend, family member, or loved one spending more and more time using or recovering from substances? Do you feel like you recognize them less and less? Watching a loved one pull away can be heartbreaking, and it can be difficult to know whether they’re struggling with substance use disorder, or whether you’re just growing apart. At Next Level Recovery, our team understands the complexities of these issues and the importance of taking action. Here are ten signs that your loved one may need an intervention, and how an interventionist can support them through the intervention process.

1. Drastic Changes in Behavior

Behavioral changes are often one of the first signs of a substance use disorder. Increased secrecy, withdrawal from friends and members of the family, and unexplained mood swings can indicate a serious problem.

Action: Document specific examples of these changes to discuss during the intervention. This helps illustrate the impact on the family system and highlights the need for help. An interventionist can help identify these behavioral changes and guide the intervention process effectively.

2. Neglecting Responsibilities

A loved one struggling with a substance use disorder or a mental health disorder might neglect responsibilities at work, school, or home. Their grades may be suffering, or they may be getting written up at work.

Action: Highlight specific instances where responsibilities have been neglected. Emphasize the importance of accountability and how their substance use is affecting their life. An interventionist can provide the necessary support and structure to help your loved one regain control over their responsibilities.

3. Physical Health Decline

Substance use disorder often leads to physical health decline. Look for signs such as sudden weight loss or gain, frequent illnesses, poor hygiene, and unexplained injuries.

Action: Encourage a visit to a mental health professional or healthcare provider. Use medical evidence to reinforce the need for immediate addiction treatment. An interventionist can coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure your loved one receives comprehensive care.

4. Financial Problems

Financial difficulties are a common consequence of substance use disorder. Unexplained expenses, frequent borrowing, or stealing to fund their habit are clear indicators that they are struggling.

Action: Review their financial situation together. Discuss the long-term implications of their substance use on their financial health and stability. An interventionist can help your loved one understand the financial impact of their substance use and develop a plan to address it.

5. Legal Issues

Legal issues, whether due to substance-related offenses or other illegal activities, are significant red flags.

Action: Address these legal problems directly. Emphasize the potential long-term consequences and how an intervention can help prevent future issues. An interventionist can provide the necessary support to address legal issues and prevent future problems.

6. Relationship Strain

Substance use disorders and mental health disorders can strain or even destroy relationships. Frequent arguments, broken trust, and isolation from members of the family are clear signs.

Action: Gather supportive members of the family and friends for the intervention. Their collective concern can demonstrate the widespread impact of the addiction. An interventionist can facilitate communication and help rebuild trust within the family system.

7. Increased Tolerance and Dependence

As substance use continues, your loved one may require more of the substance to achieve the same effect, indicating increased tolerance and dependence.

Action: Educate them on the dangers of increased tolerance and dependence. Use factual information to show how their substance use is escalating. An interventionist can provide the necessary education and support to address increased tolerance and dependence.

8. Denial and Minimization

Many individuals struggling with substance use disorders deny the severity of their problem or minimize its impact.

Action: Gently confront their denial. Provide concrete examples and evidence to challenge their perceptions. An interventionist can provide the necessary support to confront denial and encourage acceptance of the problem.

9. Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance is a strong indication of physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms can include nausea, aches, fever, and general discomfort.

Action: Discuss the symptoms they experience during withdrawal. Highlight the importance of professional medical support and behavioral therapies during this critical period. An interventionist can coordinate with medical professionals to ensure safe and effective management of withdrawal symptoms.

10. Unsuccessful Attempts to Quit

Repeated attempts to quit using the substance, followed by relapse, suggest a loss of control over the addiction.

Action: Recognize their efforts to quit and emphasize the necessity of structured support. An interventionist can provide the structured support necessary to overcome repeated relapses.

Taking Action: Reach Out Today

If you’ve done everything you can and your loved one is still struggling, it may be time to schedule an intervention. Led by Amanda Marino of A&E’s “Intervention” and “Digital Addiction,” Next Level Recovery Services offers a discreet suite of services for those struggling with addiction and mental health. Our expert team offers an elite, concierge-style, experience with services like:

• Interventions

• Sober or Wellness Companions

• Case Management

• Individual & Family Coaching

Each interventionist ensures each person feels valued, heard, and respected throughout their unique journey. We’re driven by the desire to see you thrive. In order to provide the highest caliber of service, Next Level team members also partner with licensed mental health professionals, marriage and family counselors, medical doctors, treatment facilities, and more.

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Ready to start the process? Reach out to us today at 800 516 2516 and a member of our team will answer any questions you have. You don’t have to do this alone.

FAQs about Interventions

• What is an intervention team?

  An intervention team is a group of individuals, including a professional interventionist, family members, and sometimes friends, who come together to encourage a loved one to seek help for drug abuse or other mental disorders. The team collaborates to plan and execute the intervention, ensuring it is supportive and effective.

• How does drug abuse affect the family system?

  Drug abuse can severely impact the family system, causing emotional distress, financial strain, and broken relationships. The entire family dynamic can be disrupted as members struggle to cope with the addict’s behavior and the consequences of their addiction.

• What role does a treatment center play in the recovery process?

  A treatment center provides a structured and supportive environment for individuals recovering from drug abuse and other mental disorders. These centers offer a range of services, including medical detox, therapy, and aftercare programs, to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety.

• Can an intervention help with other mental disorders/mental illness?

  Yes, interventions can be effective for addressing other mental disorders in addition to drug abuse. A professional interventionist can tailor the intervention to address specific mental health needs and guide the individual toward appropriate treatment.

• What does research suggest about the effectiveness of interventions?

  Research suggests that interventions, when conducted by a professional interventionist and supported by a dedicated intervention team, can significantly increase the chances of an individual entering treatment and beginning their recovery process. Interventions help break through denial and motivate individuals to seek the help they need.

• What is assertive community treatment, and how does it relate to interventions?

  Assertive community treatment (ACT) is an intensive, team-based approach to treating individuals with severe mental health disorders. While ACT is not specifically an intervention, it shares the goal of providing comprehensive, personalized care to support long-term recovery. An intervention can be the first step in connecting an individual with ACT services.

• How can a family member contribute to the success of an intervention?

  Family members play a crucial role in the success of an intervention. Their involvement can provide emotional support and demonstrate the collective concern of the intervention team. Family members can share personal stories and observations, helping the individual understand the impact of their drug abuse on those they love.

• Why is it important to have a professional interventionist?

  A professional interventionist brings expertise and experience to the intervention process. They guide the planning and execution of the intervention, ensuring it is conducted safely and effectively. Their presence can help manage emotions, keep the conversation focused, and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

• What should we expect during the recovery process after an intervention?

  The recovery process after an intervention involves several stages, including detoxification, therapy, and aftercare. The individual will work with professionals at a treatment center to address the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and build a support network. Ongoing support from family members and the intervention team is essential to maintain long-term sobriety and mental health.