After awhile, even the strongest defenders of the alcoholic's good qualities begin to grow weary of his persistent denial and unresponsiveness. In all these instances, the problem drinker is allowed more time to continue his drinking. Unfortunately, however, time is not on the side of the untreated alcoholic. Delay in the alcoholic's treatment only results in him getting sicker. The earlier the alcoholic can be diagnosed and treated, the less the destruction to his health and the greater the likelihood of his recovery.
Alcoholism needs to be confronted regardless of the stage of the disease.
Helping the Alcoholic Seek Treatment Usually, motivating the problem drinker to seek treatment starts when you realize he may be unable to help himself and needs you to act in his best interest. Also you need a plan of action to get him to accept professional help at a treatment facility. Intervention is a group process to motivate the alcoholic to enter a treatment program for his disease. After intervention the alcoholic usually will feel the need for professional assistance. Intervention calls for you to join together with other people to confront the alcoholic and to create a caring crisis for him.