Ep 11. Heroin Hits Home

In season 4 episode 11 of Intervention, titled "Heroin Hits Home," viewers are introduced to Sarah, a young mother addicted to heroin. The episode opens with Sarah's family expressing their deep concern for her well-being, as they fear she is already at the point of no return. Sarah's addiction had started out as an attempt to self-medicate for an amphetamine addiction, but quickly spiraled out of control. The family recounts the many times Sarah has been admitted to rehab, only to relapse after a brief period of sobriety.

Heroin has hit home for the family, as Sarah's addiction has affected every aspect of their lives. Her children have been taken away by Child Protective Services, and her relationships with family members have been strained. Sarah's mother, in particular, has been hit hard by her daughter's addiction, and begins to break down during her interview segment.

Throughout the episode, the audience sees Sarah's day-to-day life, which revolves around her drug use. She has lost her job, and her days are spent panhandling and shoplifting to get money for her next fix. She is also shown using heroin in a public restroom, an image that is jarring even for those familiar with addiction.

The intervention team, including host Jeff VanVonderen and interventionist Candy Finnigan, meet with Sarah's family to plan the intervention. The team emphasizes that interventions can only be successful if the addict is willing to receive help. Sarah's family speaks candidly about their fears and concerns, and the team prepares to confront Sarah.

When Sarah arrives at the location of the intervention, she is visibly agitated and combative. Despite multiple attempts by her family and the intervention team to reason with her, Sarah resists the idea of getting help. It's a heartbreaking moment, as many of Sarah's family members break down in tears.

However, the intervention team stays committed to the cause. A particularly moving moment comes when interventionist Candy Finnigan opens up about her own past addiction struggles. Her words seem to resonate with Sarah, who finally agrees to enter treatment.

The remainder of the episode follows Sarah's journey to recovery. She enters a 90-day treatment program, and viewers see her start to rebuild her life. The road is not easy - Sarah struggles with the physical and emotional effects of detoxification - but she perseveres. Her family is shown visiting her at the treatment center, and they express hope that this time, Sarah will be able to stay sober.

The final act of the episode shows Sarah's "graduation" from the treatment program, where she is presented with a ceremonial chip to mark her sobriety. Sarah's mother speaks at the ceremony, expressing her gratitude for her daughter's recovery. Sarah herself speaks, reflecting on the impact her addiction has had on her life.

The episode ends on a hopeful note, as Sarah looks forward to starting her new life outside of the treatment center. Intervention is known for its deeply personal, emotional portrayal of addiction, and this episode is no different. "Heroin Hits Home" is a sobering look at the devastating effects of addiction on families, but also an inspiring example of how recovery is possible.