You’ve made the decision to help your loved one get the alcohol and drug treatment he or she needs. As you prepare for the intervention, you may be wondering what happens afterward. What will treatment, if they accept it, look like, and what can you, as a caregiver, expect from the process? Although every situation is different, here are some possibilities of what can happen after a successful intervention.
Immediate Placement in Detox and/or Residential Treatment
Residential treatment for drugs and alcohol is often recommended, especially for clients who need detox support and an environment dedicated to full-time recovery. Detox should be the first and immediate step. The longer treatment is delayed, the more likely that your loved one’s motivation will flag and that they will change their mind altogether. Consider having a treatment center lined up in advance. This way, everyone will know what to expect after the intervention.
Arranging Leave of Absence from Work
If your loved one needs immediate help, they may qualify for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This law allows individuals to retain their job and their current benefits when they need to seek medical care. Privacy is protected under this law; your loved one can choose what information to give their employer. For those who qualify, the FMLA provides support for up to 12 weeks of care.
Immediate Outpatient Care
Your interventionist or an admissions counselor can help you determine whether your loved one needs residential treatment. Those who don’t need full-time support should begin intensive outpatient counseling or traditional outpatient counseling. At DK Solutions Group, this includes one-on-one counseling with a licensed therapist.
During the intervention, your loved one will learn what is expected of them in terms of getting help, where they will live, and when they will receive counseling services. During therapy, clients will learn how to:
- Deal with past trauma, if relevant
- Manage their addiction
- Handle any co-occurring mental disorders, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder
- Handle responsibilities
- Work through guilt
- Manage relationship and family stressors
The therapist will set up a customized treatment plan that includes the type and amount of care your loved one needs. This may include cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based treatment. Some people also benefit from complementary holistic treatment. Group and family therapy may also be a component here.
Family & Caregiver Education & Counseling
It’s not easy watching your loved one battle alcohol and drug addiction. You will find yourself in difficult situations, especially if your loved one lives with you. Here are a few things to remember.
- Drug addiction is a disease. Those with addiction cannot stop using on their own.
- Treatment will help them to get better and gain stability if they work at it.
- Don’t make the mistake of supplying them with finances or support if they use again while in treatment.
- Hold your ground on any boundaries you’ve set. This includes the boundary of not allowing them in the family home if they use drugs or alcohol.
- Work with your own therapist and in counseling sessions to ensure your needs are being met as well.
After an intervention occurs, many families can breathe a short sigh of relief knowing their loved one is going to get help. Yet, it’s critical to remain focused on doing the work of recovery as a family: learning about addiction, about triggers, and about relapse. Family counselors can help you explore these topics after the intervention.
Whether your loved one enters residential care right away or comes home with you, make sure you realize this is an opportunity to save their life. Addiction will not get better without treatment from a professional. Are you ready to help your loved one get help? Let the team at DK Solutions Group provide you with the support you need both now and after an intervention.