How to Stage an Intervention for Teens

Originally posted on https://www.foothillsatredoak.com/teen-recovery-blog/how-to-stage-an-intervention-for-teens/

Teen substance abuse is one of the most distressing things that families can go through. It’s very difficult for the family members to watch their loved ones repeatedly stumble. Fortunately, holding an intervention can show teenagers how much their families love them and only want the best for them. Before families take that step, though, they must learn how to stage an intervention for teens.

Whether for teens or adults, interventions can be awkward. When it comes to adolescent interventions, the process can be tricky. Most teenagers think that they know more than they do and that their families only hold them back. Because of that, talking to them about changing their behaviors is a challenge.

However, before you can learn how to stage an intervention for teens, you must understand the different types of adolescent interventions. An informal intervention usually involves the parents just talking with the teen about drug abuse. Essentially, it’s a quiet conversation with the goal of educating teenagers about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.

When there’s evidence of ongoing drug abuse, a formal intervention is necessary. At this point, other family members gather to address the problem too. They confront the teenager about the effects their substance abuse has had on their lives. If teens could become violent or storm out, families should consider asking professionals for help.

Families who want to hold interventions on their own can follow some tips to succeed. It’s important that they review all of these tips before they start. Even when they do, though, the first intervention may not resolve all of the issues. Sometimes, it takes several conversations and help from a teen intervention center.

Before families talk to their teens, they need to have a goal in mind. Even if it’s a small goal, they need to know where to take the conversation. Do they just want their teenagers to obey a curfew, stop binge drinking, or see a therapist?

In any case, families should keep their expectations within reason. Achieving even the smallest goal is a triumph.

Teenagers aren’t happy when their families approach them about their behavior. They’re likely to lash out and accuse their family members of being nosy, lying, or being fake. Because of that, preparing and practicing the talk is an important tip for how to stage an intervention for teens.

Families need to know how they’ll deal with the accusations before they happen. They should even practice what they want to say and how they’ll say it. In fact, asking a friend to listen to their statement can ensure that it’s clear without being judgmental.

Does a teen in your family have a substance abuse problem? Foothills at Red Oak Recovery has an adolescent program that redefines the clinical experience. Our outpatient treatment center offers many treatments, including:

• Alcohol and drug abuse treatments
• Disordered eating treatment
• Anxiety and depression treatments
• Trauma treatment
• Gaming and social media addiction treatments

Don’t let your teen hit rock bottom before you intervene. Learn more about how to stage an intervention for teens from Foothills at Red Oak Recovery. Call 866.300.5275 today.