Alcohol Abuse/Addiction- effects of formal interventions? worth it?

[certainshadeofgreen]

I don't know about you guys, but alcoholism runs in my family, and has always been a concern for me. My question to you is, when does alcoholism need an intervention?

I ask because really into the show Intervention on A&E right now...it's really inspiring to me. I've seen a lot of different kinds of episodes, and I like that they show part of it from the family's point of view, to show how upsetting it can be to the loved ones. I work with A&E, and I think this show is important if you or someone you know is struggling with addiction.

It airs every Monday night at 9pm/8c. You can check out more info on the show at http://www.aetv.com/intervention.

Have any of you seen it? What do you think?

[Shampoo]

Intervention becomes a necessity and an appropriate measure of action when the addiction impact "regular" behavior. I put the term "regular" in quotes because it means something different to everyone. "Regular" for swim may be a gram of mushies and a few bowls... or perhaps a relaxing drink? The question is, how does this addiction impact those surrounding the addict. Does the addict hold a regular job? keep a 4.0 GPA? raise healthy and sane children? then perhaps the intervention is more for the 'interventors' benifit than that of the addict. If however the addiction prevents them from living a productive or "quality" life, however it be defined for them, than in intervention is appropriate no matter the substance. An addiction is only as serious as the addiction, not necessarily the drug (though obviously some have a higher propensity for addiction...). Hence, alcohol should be taken as seriously as heroin, perhaps more if health is the primary concern.
Make a list of concerns. Does it seem rational?

[wings of wax]

Thanks for turning me on to that show. It's great. There's only two episodes on their website, though, and I'm not in the states and cannot receive the tv channel.

Does anyone know where to watch the show online? Thanks.

[moda00]

Is there any follow up on the people portrayed in the show? It would be an interesting (and significant) point in finding if intervention is successful, not only by the numbers, but also the perspectives of the addict and their family friends?

Also it is a good topic relating to when use becomes abuse, when abuse becomes addiction/dependence, etc. Many family members or friends may evaluate the situation very differently than the using person. When is an intervention necessary/warranted, and has anyone experience with them?