Check list for an Intervention

*Prior to your intervention make sure you cover all the bases.

_____ Draft a list of potential interveners. Remember to let them be responsible for saying yes or no.
_____ Contact each person on your list. Face to face whenever possible.

*Write Out List of Examples - no set number, the more the better

_____ Identify the changes in their pattern of chemical use
Amount consumed.
Denial of use, even when it’s obvious.
Hiding the frequency or amount being used.
Attempts to control or go on the wagon.

_____ Identify changes in personality
Angry outbursts followed by acting as if nothing occurred.
Violent outbursts.
Silly and irrational actions. (ie: Fantasy solutions to problems)
Obsessed with drinking or drug related activities.
How does this contrast with their sober behavior.

_____ Identify health problems
Broken bones and bruises, possibly unexplained.
Frequent stomach problems.
Blackouts (chemically induced amnesia).
Depression.
Use of multiple doctors/pharmacies for prescribed drugs.

_____ Identify disruptions in personal activities
Dropping hobbies or activities that interfere with chemical use.
Loss of jobs or promotions
Significant drop in grades at school.
A shift in usual circle of friends (usually towards others that use chemicals in the same manner).

_____ Identify problems that have occurred during special occasions
Christmas.
Thanksgiving.
Birthdays.
Anniversaries.
Parties.

_____ Investigate treatment center options.
_____ Verify treatment costs and insurance coverage.
_____ Set the group goals.
_____ Select the spokesperson for the group.
_____ Choose the order of presentation.
_____ Write a letter of concern that covers.

1) How you feel towards the person.
2) Address any feelings of fear you have.
3) Talk about how long you’ve been worried.

Remember that this letter will lead into your list of concerns.
_____ Fully rehearse all lists.
_____ Develop suitable answers to why "I can’t go right now."
_____ Select the time and the location for the intervention.