Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Articles

Intervention: Help a loved one overcome addiction

Content

It's hard helping a loved one who is struggling with any type of addiction. Sometimes a direct, heart-to-heart conversation can start the road to recovery. But when it comes to addiction, the person with the issue often struggles to see there's an issue. A more focused approach often is needed. You may need to join forces with others and take action through a formal intervention.

Examples of addictions where an intervention may be needed include:

  • Alcohol use disorder.
  • Prescription drug misuse.
  • Street drug misuse.
  • Compulsive eating.
  • Compulsive gambling.

People who struggle with addiction often won't accept their situation and don't want to seek treatment. They may not accept the negative effects their behavior has on themselves and others.

An intervention gives your loved one a chance to make changes before things get even worse. It's also a chance to accept help.