Ep 4. Andrew
- TV-14
- July 19, 2010
- 44 min
Andrew is a heart-wrenching episode from season 8 of the popular reality TV series, Intervention. The series focuses on individuals who are struggling with addiction and follows them through the process of getting help and entering rehab.
In this episode, we meet Andrew, a 26-year-old man who is struggling with addiction to a dangerous combination of opiates and benzodiazepines. His addiction has been going on for six years and has left him homeless and desperate for a solution.
We learn about Andrew's background and the events that led him to start using drugs. He had a difficult childhood, growing up with a father who was often absent and a mother who struggled with addiction herself. Andrew began experimenting with drugs in his early teens and quickly became addicted.
The episode takes us through Andrew's daily routine, which involves panhandling on the streets to get money for drugs. We see him using in public parks and back alleys, and hear from his friends and family members about the long list of negative consequences he has faced as a result of his addiction.
Andrew's mother, Linda, has reached out to Intervention for help. She is beside herself with worry and doesn't know where else to turn. Throughout the episode, we see her grappling with the pain of watching her son struggle and the fear that he might overdose and die.
The Intervention team stages a surprise intervention for Andrew, and several of his loved ones are present to plead with him to seek help. Andrew is initially resistant, but eventually agrees to go to rehab.
The episode follows Andrew through the detox process and his first few weeks in rehab. We see him struggling with withdrawal symptoms and the feelings of shame and guilt that come with admitting that he needs help. But we also see him beginning to make progress and connect with the other people in rehab alongside him.
The final third of the episode shows Andrew in a much better place. He has made progress in rehab and is now living in a sober living home. He is also taking part in a 12-step program and has reconnected with some of his family members.
The episode ends with a follow-up a few months after Andrew has left rehab. We see him living independently and working towards his goals. Though he still struggles with the temptation to use, he is committed to staying sober and building a better life for himself.
Overall, Andrew is a moving episode that highlights the devastating impact of addiction on individuals and their families, but also shows that recovery is possible with help and support.