Intervention

ABOUT INTERVENTION

Intervention

An intervention, whether informal or formal, is:

  • An attempt by one or more persons to prevent harm in another person's life.
  • To come between a person and some potential source of danger.
  • Like standing at the curb of a busy intersection with an individual who doesn't notice an oncoming bus and stopping him from stepping into its path.

INFORMAL INTERVENTION

An informal intervention is:

  • Having a 'one on one' conversation with another person about their drinking.
  • Parents having a heart to heart talk with their son/daughter about marijuana use.
  • Talking with a spouse about the money they are spending on gambling.
  • Expressing concern for an individual about weight loss due to eating habits.

People seeking formal intervention have often tried many informal methods which have not been effective.

FORMAL INTERVENTION

  • Is usually conducted by a professional.
  • Is a choice and a gift.
  • Benefits both the concerned persons and to the person being intervened upon.
  • Is a setting where the "intervenee's" behaviors are openly addressed.
  • Is an opportunity to do something before it is too late.

A formal intervention is/has:

  • Very much like a small stage play.
  • A director who collaborates with the rest of the "actors" to successfully put on the "play."
  • Choreographed and scripted; participants have specific lines to say and places to be at specific times during the play.
  • A "set" that must be designed and arranged.
  • No guarantees but is like having a key made. If a key is cut correctly, it is much more likely to open the lock.
  • Participants who will have much input in the process of preparing for the play. They will have suggestions and information which will add to the play's effectiveness.
  • A final script that is decided upon and practiced at a dress rehearsal and when the curtain goes up, the script determines the chances for success.
  • More likely to be successful if professionally facilitated.
  • A way to help those who seem unable or unwilling to help themselves.
  • A time-tested method for helping those who hurt.

All of the foregoing and more are discussed during preparation for a formal intervention.

Potential intervenors will have the opportunity to talk about these issues and get answers to any questions before deciding whether or not they want to participate.

For more information call 225-927-6444.