When an addictAn individual with an unhealthy dependence on a substance or behavior. An individual remains an addict even years into recovery and must therefore remain active in recovery. Read more about drug & alcohol addiction & withdrawal at Withdrawal Info. More is in denialAddicts can spend years showing clear symptoms of out of control behavior without admitting the severity of the problem to themselves or others. It often takes an external shock such as losing a job, imprisonment, or public humiliation to break the hold of denial. More or refuses to get help, the people in their lives sometimes find it necessary to impress upon the individual that they require immediate treatmentA blanket term for concentrated efforts to help addicts transition to a healthier life. These can include any of the following (in isolation or combination): therapy, counseling, medication, harm reduction, or moderation. More. An intervention usually involves confronting the addict with the impact of their destructive behavior; a recoveryThe process by which addicts attempt to break the hold a certain substance or behavior has on their lives. This can refer to participation in a wide variety of methods. What they all have in common, is a sense that life is improving and the addict is regaining control. More plan and perhaps the unpleasant consequences of a refusal to get help. This process should be conducted with the help of a licensed professional.