[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often life-changing. It is a condition that can place many obstacles in one’s way, making it difficult to navigate personal and professional relationships. If your loved one is clearly showing symptoms of PTSD, but will not agree to PTSD treatment, then it may be time to schedule an intervention. This can be a good way to show your loved ones how their actions are directly impacting the people closest to them. If you have never staged an intervention, these dos and don’ts can act as a helpful guide.

Do Ask For Help

If this is your first time staging an intervention, don’t be afraid to ask for help. This is an emotional experience, so it is understandable if you do not feel comfortable doing it on your own. In this case, it is recommended that you contact a certified interventionist with years of experience. They will act as the mediator and ensure that everyone gets heard and is more equipped to handle possible objections from the PTSD sufferer.

Don’t Invite Emotional People

When staging an intervention, it is important to be selective about who is present. For example, you should only invite people who have a positive relationship with the PTSD sufferer. However, you should consider if it’s in everyone’s best interest to invite overly emotional friends and family members. The goal of the intervention is to get your loved one to agree to get treatment at a New Jersey facility, such as More Life Recovery Center. If you invite someone who feels as if they have been wronged by the PTSD sufferer, will they use this opportunity to lash out? Or, if a friend or family member is overly emotional and cries frequently, will the attention be shifted to them?

It is understandable that you would want all friends and family members present but remember that the goal is to have a successful intervention with a favorable outcome. You may have to make tough decisions and gently explain your reasoning to those you haven’t invited.

Do Choose The Right Location

When staging an intervention, be mindful of the location you choose. You may prefer the convenience of your own home, but you don’t want your loved ones to feel too comfortable in their surroundings. If the conversation becomes uncomfortable and they object to what’s being said, they can easily leave and lock themselves in another room.

Therefore, it is recommended to have it conducted in a neutral location. This is another benefit of working with an interventionist: you will have access to their private, safe office. However, if you opt to do this on your own, you can go to a community center or use the office of a therapist, psychiatrist, or pastor. In this setting, your loved one will most likely be on their best behavior and are less likely to make a scene.

Don’t Go Unrehearsed

It is important to have a clear plan before you begin. This isn’t to say that you shouldn’t have moments where you speak from your heart but given the level of emotion to be expected, it’s recommended that you know exactly what you’re going to say. You should know who is leading the intervention, how long it will last, and how not to place blame on the PTSD sufferer. If you think you will forget what to say, take notes. This will prevent you from saying anything you will regret or from allowing the intervention to drag on unnecessarily.

Do Stick With The Plan

Make sure everyone knows about the plan and does not deviate from the script. Also, don’t expect the entire intervention to go according to plan. It is likely that your loved one will object to what is being said. Therefore, you should always expect the unexpected and come up with a Plan B. So, if your loved one does lash out, you will not be taken off guard and you will know exactly how to react.  

Contact More Life Recovery Center

Our team is committed to helping individuals get on the road to recovery. Our outpatient and inpatient programs provide an optimum healing opportunity for everyone, in an environment that makes them feel safe. For PTSD treatment in New Jersey, contact More Life Recovery Center. Call (888) 825-8689 for 24/7 customer support.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]