Family crisis intervention is necessary when a family member is in denial of of their alcohol or substance abuse problem. If the family of a alcohol or drug abuser is coming together to try to intervene, they are most likely doing so because of a specific situation or situations where the addict’s alcohol or drug influenced behavior threatened the welfare of themselves, their family, or even a complete stranger.

What Does Family Crisis Intervention Consist of?

Denial is the most powerful and most common weapon employed by the alcohol or drug abuser: they don't need help, because they don't have a problem. A family crisis intervention will show your family member that they do have an actual problem. This is accomplished through the use of specific examples by everyone in the family showing how their lives have been adversely affected by the family member's abuse of alcohol and/or drugs. Afterwards, denial by the troubled family member is no longer possible (or at least much more difficult). At the same time, the family will demonstrate their solidarity and unity behind their loved one with the problem and show them that all the family wants is for them to get better. 

The Importance of a Professional Family Crisis Interventionist

The professional family crisis interventionist is trained to handle any outcomes, scenarios or situations that may arise. The reactions of a addict can often be erratic and unpredictable, and family crisis interventionists have been trained in how to guide the process with an objective and detached voice. They can also assist in handling the logistics and finding a quality alcohol or drug treatment center for your family member. In addition, they will be a great source of support and stability for family members who might be wavering in their resolve to follow through with the “tough love” philosophy associated with a family crisis intervention. It is important to remember that this is not a situation that can be resolved simply by sitting down with the family member who is addicted to alcohol and/or drugs and telling them that need to get help. If it was that easy, you wouldn't be reading this right now and searching for help for your family member who has a alcohol and/or drug problem.

How Does One Initiate a Family Crisis Intervention?

If your family is in need of a family crisis intervention, we can help. The National Alcohol and Substance Abuse Information Center (NASAIC) maintains a continuously updated national database of family crisis interventionists in your local area, as well as the leading recommended family crisis interventionists in the United States. Contacting us right now for help will be one of the best decisions you have ever made in helping your family member get the help they need.