If your loved one doesn't accept help

Unfortunately, not all interventions succeed. In some cases, your loved one with an addiction may not accept the treatment plan. They may get very angry or say that help isn't needed. They also may be resentful and accuse you of betrayal or being a hypocrite.

Emotionally prepare yourself for these situations. But remain hopeful for positive change. If your loved one doesn't accept treatment, be prepared to follow through with the changes you presented.

Often, children, partners, siblings and parents are on the receiving end of abuse, violence, threats and emotional upheaval because of alcohol and drug issues. You can't control the behavior of your loved one with the addiction. But you can remove yourself — and any children — from a dangerous situation.

Even if an intervention doesn't work, you and others in your loved one's life can make changes that may help. Ask other people involved not to feed into the destructive cycle of behavior and take steps to make positive change.