According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, one of the keys to effective treatment is addressing all aspects of the individual, including their financial, physical, mental, and social well-being.
Substance abuse is multi-dimensional and can come to affect every part of a person's life.
Those involved in drug intervention should be aware that the abuse of a substance is not simply an action the individual needs to cease, but can often be a coping mechanism or mode of escaping from a dysfunctional life.
Chemically dependent individuals may need more help than simply ridding themselves of the substance abuse.
They may need assistance rebuilding the skills needed to be successful in life: skills like paying bills, obtaining work, maintaining physical health, and developing relationships that may have been lost in the battle with addiction.
Having positive support in these areas can make all the difference as the individual attempts to create a new life.
Loved ones should know that they also may need support through the recovery process.
Understanding addiction is key to processing the guilt and negative emotions associated with it.
Education can help loved ones identify and address areas of need in the lives of both themselves and recovering individual.
It can help them develop positive relationships, centered around creating a substance-free life.
Support may also be necessary in the event of a relapse.
Addiction is rarely linear, and the unfortunate cycles of abuse and recovery can drain even the most ardent of supporters.
Quality drug intervention programs address both the needs of the dependent individual and the team that provides the support necessary to their recovery.
The role of guilt in addiction is often underestimated.
In the common twelve-step program, steps five, eight, and nine address the wrongdoing of the dependent person toward other people and the mending of relationships.
These are great steps, and necessary, but relationships go two ways.
The guilt felt by loved ones can have a nearly equal role in the process of recovery.
Support during drug intervention can help dependent individuals and loved ones to address past hurts, and build solid foundations for positive future relationships.
For success, it is essential that all those involved are aware of the real struggles of recovery and are committed to seeing them through.
Often, that means becoming aware of the past injuries that undermine positive interactions and lead to blame and guilt.
A well-chosen drug intervention program can make the difference in creating an environment that promotes recovery and healing.
If a loved one is suffering from addiction, know that there is hope.
Know, also, that it may take a committed team to see them to the other side.
Drug addiction is a multi-faceted issue that requires a multi-faceted approach.
It may be in the best interest of everyone involved to seek out professionals to support you all in your journey to recovery.
Those with the knowledge and understanding to see your personal struggles are out there.
They are aware of the pain and guilt that drug abuse can inflict on all those involved.