When someone is addicted, whether to alcohol or drugs, gambling, eating or sex, the lives of their friends and family can be turned upside down. Despite promises to quit, the behavior may even worsen and loved ones, out of genuine care and concern, or desperation, may consider addressing the pain such behavior is causing. There are protocols for carrying out such a successful alcohol intervention include:

• The behavior in question is causing significant damage
• Denial prevents consideration of the damage done
• The individual won’t seek help on their own
• Friends and family can change the enabling environment

The interventionist must convey care and non-judgmental understanding. The motive for intervention is to protect, not punish. An intervention is not a confrontation, but an organized expression of concern. When properly executed, a professional intervention can get the individual into an alcohol detox facility and ultimately through successful completion of a program at one of the many qualified alcohol rehabilitation centers so that they can resume a healthy, happy, productive life.