Our Drug and Alcohol Intervention Services in Hawaii Support Families in Maui, The Big Island, Kauai, Oahu, and Lanai Facing Addiction Challenges

Ohana with loved ones struggling with addiction and other issues can get help here. Newman Intervention and Addiction Services has helped countless families in Hawaii organize family interventions. We have helped many families in Hawaii with loved ones struggling with addiction. Our certified interventionists help each family find drug rehab in Hawaii and plan and perform a successful family intervention. Call our toll-free number or fill out a callback form for immediate assistance.

The most common issues surrounding drug and alcohol intervention services in Hawaii involve families dealing with crystal methamphetamine (ice) use, alcohol abuse, and the mental health challenges brought on by these substance abuse problems. Many residents express frustration during their initial calls due to the limited availability of intervention programs in Hawaii and local treatment centers. This frustration often intensifies when they discover that their loved one may need to travel to the mainland for treatment or that a professional interventionist may need to be brought in from out of state.

Even when providing addiction intervention services in Hawaii, we often accompany the individual a significant distance from their familiar surroundings. This approach helps reduce the likelihood of the person leaving treatment against medical advice or being influenced by a family member, or close by drug or alcohol using friends to exit treatment prematurely. Cravings are often so overwhelming that being in close proximity creates huge challenges for those struggling with addiction.

While the process may seem overwhelming, it’s essential to stress the importance of using the most effective and evidence-based strategies. When a family and their loved one are willing to let go of their old ways and embrace new approaches, positive change often occurs. Our substance abuse intervention services in Hawaii are designed to support families through this challenging time with compassion and expertise.

Understanding how our Intervention and Addiction Services work in Hawaii

When Newman Intervention & Addiction Services performs an intervention in Hawaii, the approach is meticulously planned, compassionate, and tailored to address the unique challenges faced by families dealing with addiction and mental health issues. Given the distinct geographical and cultural landscape of Hawaii, as well as the limited availability of local treatment resources, the intervention process is designed to be as effective and efficient as possible.

Initial Consultation and Planning

The process begins with a thorough consultation where the family’s concerns and the specific circumstances of the individual in need are discussed. Newman Interventions emphasizes the importance of selecting the right treatment program before the intervention even begins. This is crucial because, once the individual agrees to get help, there is a small window of time to act before they might change their mind​. Therefore, families are encouraged to research treatment options in advance, often considering facilities on the mainland due to Hawaii’s limited resources.

Assembling and Unifying the Intervention Team

Next, a carefully selected intervention team is assembled. This team typically includes family members and close friends who are emotionally connected to the individual but are also clear-headed, strong, and able to remain unified in their goal of getting the person into treatment​. The team’s unity is critical; any fractures or disagreements during the intervention can derail the process. Prior to the intervention, a pre-intervention meeting is held to align everyone on the strategy and purpose. At this meeting, team members prepare letters to express their love and concern, which serve as a guide during the intervention itself.

The Intervention Day

On the day of the intervention, Newman Interventions follows a structured and supportive approach. The team, led by a Certified Intervention Professional like Bobby Newman, positions themselves in a way that subtly controls the environment—blocking exit routes and ensuring the individual feels the collective presence of their loved ones. The Interventionist is often introduced as a “friend of the family,” facilitates the discussion, allowing each team member to read their prepared letter in a predetermined order. This methodical approach ensures that the most impactful voices are heard, creating a powerful emotional appeal.

Handling Resistance and Ensuring Success

Newman Interventions is prepared for any reaction, whether it be anger, denial, or attempts at manipulation. The intervention is conducted with a balance of firmness and compassion. If the individual tries to isolate themselves or disrupt the group, Newman’s team remains united and follows them, ensuring they do not succeed in breaking up the intervention. The interventionist might also describe the treatment program to the individual and, if appropriate, share personal experiences to build trust and relate to the individual’s struggles.

The Outcome and Follow-Up

Once the individual agrees to treatment, the process moves quickly. Newman’s Interventionist arranges immediate travel, often escorting the individual to the mainland, where they are less likely to be influenced by familiar environments or rogue family members​. This separation is key to reducing the likelihood of the person leaving treatment prematurely. The intervention is deemed successful not merely by the immediate acceptance of help, but by the family’s commitment to follow through on their stance, even if the individual initially refuses treatment.

In summary, Newman Intervention & Addiction Services provides a comprehensive, evidence-based intervention process in Hawaii, ensuring that families are supported every step of the way and that their loved one is given the best possible chance to begin their journey toward recovery.

Robert Newman is a Certified Intervention Professional by International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium and is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor with the State of Hawaii

Selecting a Drug Rehab or Alcohol Treatment Center in Hawaii

Hawaii’s rehab centers are often praised for their unique approach to treatment, integrating local culture and the natural surroundings into therapy and counseling programs. However, when selecting a treatment center for a loved one struggling with addiction, it is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks of choosing a facility in close proximity to home. While Hawaii’s rehab centers do offer residential treatment and outpatient services, providing flexibility in treatment plans tailored to the individual’s needs, the familiar environment may not always be conducive to successful recovery.

One of the primary concerns with selecting a rehab center in Hawaii is the close proximity to family members and drug-using friends. This can lead to increased temptations, distractions, and the possibility of the individual leaving treatment prematurely. Despite the comprehensive substance abuse care offered, including interventions, residential treatment, and outpatient programs, the presence of familiar surroundings and contacts can undermine the effectiveness of the treatment.

Hawaii’s specialized rehab centers often collaborate with health division providers to offer integrated care that addresses not only addiction but also any co-occurring mental health issues. This holistic approach is indeed beneficial and provides a strong foundation for long-term recovery. However, the success of such treatment can be significantly enhanced when the individual is placed in an environment that is free from familiar triggers and influences. Being physically distant from their usual environment can help them focus entirely on their recovery journey, without the added pressure of nearby temptations.

Family involvement is a crucial component of the treatment process in Hawaii’s rehab centers, with many programs designed to help rebuild family connections and repair relationships strained by addiction. However, this involvement can still be maintained effectively even when the individual is receiving treatment on the mainland. Through family counseling and therapy sessions, which can often be conducted via video calls or scheduled visits, loved ones can actively participate in the recovery process without compromising the integrity of the treatment environment.

Additionally, while Hawaii’s serene environment offers a tranquil backdrop for recovery, this same setting can sometimes work against the individual by providing too much comfort and familiarity. For many individuals, a complete change of scenery—away from the islands—is necessary to break the cycle of addiction and make a fresh start. When considering a treatment center, it is important to verify the credentials and success rates of the programs offered. Verified and accredited centers on the mainland often provide the rigorous structure and distance needed to ensure a more effective and enduring recovery.

Newman Interventions understands the importance of selecting the right treatment center and works closely with families to explore all available options. While Hawaii’s rehab centers are convenient, the potential risks associated with remaining close to home often make mainland facilities a better choice for many individuals. These centers can offer the same level of comprehensive care and family involvement while providing the added benefit of physical distance from familiar environments that might hinder recovery.

The cost of treatment is also a consideration. The average cost of short-term and long-term residential drug rehab in Hawaii varies significantly, ranging from $12,000 to $60,000. Long-term private residential rehab in Hawaii can be as high as $58,810 on average. While some programs accept Medicaid and private health insurance, options may be more limited compared to other states. Families should carefully weigh the potential benefits of treatment on the mainland, where costs and insurance acceptance may be more favorable.

In conclusion, while Hawaii’s rehab centers offer valuable services, the potential drawbacks of remaining close to familiar environments cannot be overlooked. By considering treatment options on the mainland, families can provide their loved ones with a better chance of achieving long-term sobriety in an environment that supports their recovery without the distractions and temptations of home.

The Family Intervention Process

Once people have been selected to be part of the intervention, starting it does not take long.  There is a lot of communication, planning, and organization, but the interventionist coordinates this. One important part of the intervention is choosing the location.  The location where the intervention takes place should be a distraction-free environment.  Most interventions take place in the parents’ home or the home of a family member or relative.

Sometimes they happen in a hotel room, but they should be in a place that can be easily controlled.  When addicts are faced with no options but going to drug rehab, they will feel backed into a corner.  When emotions run high, the addict may start to blame other people and try to manipulate their way out of the situation.  Having an intervention in a hotel several miles away from their environment is also beneficial.  The purpose of selecting the right location is not to make it easy for them to walk away from the intervention.

Intervening is the only way to save someone struggling with addiction.  Newman Interventions will help you do this.

The Need for Drug & Alcohol Intervention in Hawaii

Substance abuse trends in Hawaii have been characterized by a few notable patterns in 2024. The most significant issues include:

Polysubstance Abuse: There has been an increase in cases involving the use of multiple substances simultaneously. This trend is concerning because it complicates treatment and increases the risk of overdose.

Co-Occurring Disorders: Many individuals struggling with substance abuse in Hawaii also face mental health challenges. The intersection of these issues is a critical focus for public health interventions. Substance-induced psychosis can occurs when drug or alcohol abuse causes severe mental symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia, often requiring immediate intervention and treatment.

Drug Overdoses: Overdose deaths remain a significant concern, particularly with the rise of potent synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The state has been working on enhancing public health surveillance to better track and respond to overdose cases.

Methamphetamine Use: Methamphetamine continues to be a major issue in Hawaii, contributing to high rates of addiction and related health problems.

Covid – 19 and Substance Abuse in Hawaii

COVID-19 has significantly impacted drug use patterns in Hawaii, intensifying pre-existing issues and introducing new challenges:

Increased Substance Use: The pandemic led to a rise in substance use as individuals faced increased stress, isolation, and uncertainty. Lockdowns and social distancing measures exacerbated mental health issues, driving some to use drugs as a coping mechanism.

Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Surge: There was a noticeable surge in the use of methamphetamine and fentanyl during the pandemic. Methamphetamine, already a significant problem in Hawaii, became even more prevalent, while fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, began appearing more frequently in drug supplies, leading to a rise in overdose deaths.

Challenges in Treatment Access: The pandemic disrupted access to treatment and recovery services. Many facilities reduced their capacity, and some individuals hesitated to seek help due to fears of contracting the virus. This limited access to necessary support for those struggling with addiction.

Mental Health Strain: COVID-19 heightened mental health challenges, leading to an increase in co-occurring disorders where individuals struggled with both substance use and mental health issues. This made treatment more complex and highlighted the need for integrated care approaches.

Polysubstance Abuse: The stress and isolation of the pandemic also contributed to an increase in polysubstance abuse, where individuals use multiple drugs simultaneously, further complicating treatment efforts.

Hawaii’s public health authorities have responded by increasing surveillance and data collection through initiatives like the new behavioral health dashboard, which tracks these evolving trends to better inform interventions and policy decisions​. A new online dashboard tracking data related to drug trends is available to the public thanks to a collaboration between the University of Hawaii, Hawaii State Department of Health and 14 statewide partner organizations. The DOH Behavioral Health Administration oversees the new Statewide Substance Use, Mental Health and Hawaii CARES Summary website.