When you have a loved one who is an alcoholic, life is complicated. It is hard enough to live with an alcoholic, and sometimes it proves even harder just trying not to give them more reasons to drink. You don't want to enable their addiction by being seen as the "bad guy" and at the same time you desperately want them to get help for their problem. If you know a family member has a self-destructive drinking problem, then an intervention might be the only way to get through to them.

The ultimate goal of an alcoholic intervention is to get the alcoholic to enter a treatment facility, hopefully willing to change their ways and live a sober life. If you aren't prepared to sacrifice time with the alcoholic in your life in order to get them healthy, then an intervention simply isn't the answer.

Where to Seek Help

The first step to planning an intervention, perhaps the easiest step in the process, is to contact an alcohol abuse counselor and tell them your situation. Ask if they think an intervention is a wise course of action. Most counselors will be more than willing to preside over the intervention, make sure things don't get out of hand, and get the person you care about into a treatment facility as soon as possible. They will be there to give you advice, so don't be afraid to ask.

In the past, interventions for alcoholics were often similar to a cross between a surprise party and an ambush. This has led many alcoholics to simply deny that they have a problem and that the only problem is that everyone else has a problem with them drinking. It may be wise to notify the person with the alcohol problem that you have been speaking to a counselor several days in advance of the intervention, just so it does not come as a complete shock. Once again, if you are unsure how to communicate this to your alcoholic friend or family member, ask a substance abuse counselor for advice.

When intervening in the life of an alcoholic, one thing to consider is where the intervention will be held. A place you might not think to try is at the alcoholic's place of work. First, make sure that your friend or loved one's employer is on board with the idea of getting his employee sober. As with all things intervention, this can be a delicate subject to discuss, especially with someone who isn't in your circle of family and friends. Your counselor should be able to help you determine a proper intervention sit if you need help.

Although interventions are inherently risky and can make matters worse both for you and the alcoholic in your life, it cannot be denied that continuing to abuse alcohol is far more dangerous than a failed intervention. If you believe a life is dependent on this intervention, then it is the only choice you have.

Carrying out an intervention carries so much risk. If the person you love storms out of the intervention and continues drinking, then you have to be prepared to pick up the pieces. Remember, an intervention is in itself an ultimatum, and alcoholics never really know what is best for them. Be prepared for the worst, but hope for the best. I wish you luck.