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Intervention Letter Template
When a group of people have decided to confront a person about their substance abuse, it can be very helpful to have everyone write an Intervention Letter . By writing an intervention letter each person can express how an individual's substance abuse issues are affecting them personally and it can help keep their thoughts on track during an emotionally painful meeting.
If the group decides to invite a professional to the intervention, such as a therapist or substance abuse counselor, the letters can help this person understand the situation better and provide feedback to the group.
Before holding the intervention, be sure to hold a practice run with the group to discuss what everyone will share or talk about. This can allow people to release some of their feelings in a cathartic way that will help them have a clearer head on the day of the intervention. An Intervention Letter template can be downloaded below.
How to Write an Intervention Letter?
To write an Intervention Letter, follow these steps below:
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The date of the intervention.
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Opening salutation to the person dealing with the addiction.
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Begin the letter by directly stating why you are writing this letter and that you are concerned about this person's addiction.
- This letter can help serve as a roadmap when you hold the intervention and will help you keep your emotions and statements organized.
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Layout what issues or concerns you want to address in this letter. Try to limit yourself to two or three main issues so that the person does not feel bombarded by negative comments, which could cause them to shut down or respond aggressively.
- Focus on how events or behaviors have felt to you. Try using "XYZ" statements, such as, "When you did X, I felt Y because Z." This will help soften the statements you are making to the person while still helping you get your concerns across.
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Whether you are writing an Alcohol Intervention Letter or a Drug Intervention Letter, you will also want to express your support and love for this person throughout the letter.
- This may be the first time the person has been confronted about their addiction and may feel blindsided by the intervention. They will also need the support of loved ones to help them begin to make positive changes after the intervention, so hearing words of encouragement and support will help them, even if they are unable to process them at the time of the intervention.
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Close the letter by stating what steps you would like the person to take next and how you plan to support them.
- If the group has found resources for the person, have those ready to give to them. Offer to help set up appointments to begin seeking treatments or join them for tours of treatment facilities.
- Be sure to end the letter with positive and supporting language and that you want this person to get better. At the end of the day, an intervention should not just be a way to air grievances, but to strongly tell a person that you want them to seek a positive remedy to their addiction.
Still looking for a particular template? Take a look at the related templates and samples below:
Download Intervention Letter Template
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