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InterventionNY
Family self-check

Is it time for an intervention?

If you are wondering whether things have gone far enough to need outside help, these ten questions can help you think it through. They are about things you can see, not about labels.

Answer yes or no to each one. Your answers stay on this page and are not stored or sent anywhere.

This is not a medical or diagnostic tool. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For a mental health crisis, call or text 988.

  1. Have they promised to cut back or stop, and then not kept that promise more than once?
  2. Have they tried to cut back on their own and been unable to stick with it?
  3. Has their drinking or drug use ever put someone’s safety at risk — driving, falls, overdoses, or leaving children unsupervised?
  4. Have there been legal problems, such as an arrest, a DUI or a court date, connected to their use?
  5. Has their use caused problems at work or school, such as missed days, warnings or losing a job?
  6. Have they refused help, or become angry or defensive, when someone raised the subject?
  7. Do they hide how much or how often they use, or have you found hidden alcohol, pills or drugs?
  8. Has money gone missing, or have bills gone unpaid, because of their use?
  9. Are family members covering for them — making excuses, paying their debts, or keeping secrets?
  10. Do you or others in the family feel exhausted, anxious or unable to keep going the way things are?

Questions families ask about this check

Is this a diagnosis?

No. This is not a medical or diagnostic tool. It is a set of questions about things families can see, meant to help you decide whether to talk to someone. Only a qualified clinician can assess a substance use problem.

Are my answers saved or sent anywhere?

No. Your answers stay in your browser and disappear when you leave the page. Nothing is sent to us unless you choose to fill in the request form separately.

What if my score is low but I am still worried?

Trust your concern. A short list of questions cannot capture every situation. If something feels wrong, a confidential conversation can help you sort out what to do next.

What happens if I call?

You talk with a certified interventionist about what is going on. We will tell you honestly whether an intervention makes sense, or whether another step — such as a clinical assessment, family support or crisis services — fits better. There is no obligation.

Start with a conversation

A free, confidential call with a certified interventionist. No pressure, no obligation, and we will tell you honestly if an intervention is not the right next step.

Request a Free Consultation(914) 594-5851

Call 24/7: (914) 594-5851 · If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.

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