The disease of addiction devastates many families today. Even those who live in quiet places like this suffer from addiction. If you are struggling with substance abuse, you are not alone. Millions of people struggle with addictive substances and, tragically, many do not get the help they need. Far too many people each year die from overdose or other substance abuse related injuries. If you are struggling, reach out. Help is available and hope is not lost.

How Can I Help a Loved One Who is Addicted to Substances?

An intervention is a great way to get someone who is addicted to substances on the right path. An intervention is a way to pull the person out of denial and the vicious cycle of abuse. It is a conversation where the person is confronted about his or her using and behavior and encouraged to get professional help in a non-judgmental and loving way.

Many people find the guidance and support of a professional interventionist to be of great benefit. There are many factors to consider, such as location and timing of the intervention, all of which the professional can help you determine. It is often recommended to find a formal yet private space for the event. Places such as homes or school may bring up unpleasant memories and distract from the message being shared.

Another consideration is timing. Some people believe that an intervention is most effective after a significant and traumatic event such as a DUI, traffic accident or overdose. Though things of this nature may certainly help illustrate the dire nature of addiction and the unmanageability, it is not necessarily wise to wait for them to happen. Waiting to stage an intervention runs the risk of the person being seriously injured or dying as a result of such a traumatic experience.

If you are concerned about a loved one, consider staging an intervention as soon as possible. Any step you take to help the person get started on the right path is a success. People who are addicted tend to suffer strongly from denial, guilt, shame and other overwhelmingly distorted thinking. If he or she does not immediately seek treatment after the intervention, do not feel discouraged. You have shown that you love and care for your loved one, however that you are not willing to enable his or her continued abuse of drugs or alcohol.

Learning to live free of drugs and alcohol can be difficult at times. Twelve Step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous have helped millions of people worldwide overcome addiction. Twelve Step programs continue to prove to be the best way of tackling this cunning, baffling and powerful disease. If you are struggling with substance abuse, find a meeting in your area and get connected. Everyone is encouraged to find a sponsor, work the Twelve Steps, and attend meetings regularly. The love, support and guidance found in Twelve Step meetings is stronger than any craving and will help you overcome any obstacle that life throws your way. Many have been where you are now and have triumphed over their addiction and gone on to live happy, healthy fulfilling lives. If you are struggling, find a meeting in your area today and start living the life you were meant to live.