Mental health disorders and substance abuse problems affect individuals and their loved ones. Family members usually suffer from grief and emotional distress because of their loved one's illness. Thus, family intervention is a therapy session that provides patients with disorders and substance abuse problems a platform to share their experiences, help their loved ones understand their disorder, and work together to ensure a positive recovery process. However, these therapeutic interventions are effective when administered early. Thus, family members should encourage their loved ones to seek medical intervention early to mitigate the harsh effects of prolonged mental disorders and substance abuse problems. Family interventions may also include a therapist who creates a safe space for both parties to open up and discuss their issues. Below are three important ways family interventions help families with loved ones suffering from various mental disorders:
They Ensure the Patient Seeks Professional Assistance
Most patients struggling with mental and substance abuse issues are usually reluctant to seek professional assistance. Failure to see a qualified physician is dangerous since it exposes patients to long-term effects that affect people's quality of life. Those who reject professional assistance do not understand the risks involved or how the situation affects their family. Thus, a family intervention allows patients access to a professional interventionist who will explain the severity of their situation, promote discourse, and help family members convince their loved ones to seek professional assistance. Additionally, the intervention allows different family members to talk to the patient and convince them to seek professional guidance.
They Improve the Patient's Recovery Outcomes
A family intervention is essential for patients with mental disorders since it improves their chances of getting a positive outcome from the recovery process. These interventions allow the qualified interventionists to help the families improve their engagement with the patient, thus providing a viable support system that improves the patient's outcome. Family interventions create a conducive environment that allows patients to feel loved despite their struggles. Thus, these interventions are integral to the patient's recovery process.
They Minimize the Family's Emotional Distress
A family intervention is crucial since it reduces the family's emotional distress of seeing their loved ones struggling with a mental disorder or substance abuse. Family members usually experience emotional distress that sours their relationship with the patient. However, family interventions promote positive communication between the patient and their family member, allowing the family members to understand their loved one's situation and how to approach it. This reduces the negative effects experienced by the patient's loved ones throughout the recovery process.
To find out more, contact a family intervention professional such as Kathy McKnight.
