Addiction recovery is a journey that takes time, effort, and a deep commitment to change. One of the most widely recognized models that explains how individuals navigate the recovery journey is the stages of change model, also referred to as the transtheoretical model (TTM).
Created by psychologists Carlo DiClemente and James Prochaska, this model outlines five key stages that people go through when making significant changes in their lives, such as overcoming addiction. These stages include precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.1
Understanding where you or a loved one falls within these stages can provide insight into the recovery process and help frame expectations.
1. Precontemplation: Not Ready for Change
In the precontemplation stage, individuals are often unaware of their addiction to alcohol or drugs, or they may not fully recognize the severity of their problem. They may downplay the consequences of their substance use, feeling that it’s not yet an issue they need to address. Others in this stage may be aware of the risks but feel resistant to change because they do not believe they have the strength or resources to tackle their addiction.
In addiction recovery, people in this stage can have a particularly challenging time. Loved ones may notice the problem through their loved one’s addictive behaviors, but the individual in precontemplation might not be open to receiving help or taking steps toward recovery. It’s essential during this stage to approach the person with compassion and patience rather than judgment.
Staging an intervention, motivational conversations, or educating them about the dangers of addiction may help them progress to the next stage. However, pushing people with addictions too hard too soon can lead to further resistance.
2. Contemplation: Thinking About Change
In the contemplation stage, a person typically begins to recognize that their addiction is problematic. They may start to weigh the pros and cons of quitting or continuing their behavior. This internal struggle can be an emotional one, as people wrestle with their desire to keep using versus their desire to improve their health, relationships, and quality of life.
This is a crucial turning point in addiction recovery. While the person hasn’t committed to change yet, they are open to the idea that their life could be better without the addiction. During this stage, therapy and counseling can be highly beneficial in helping individuals explore their fears, doubts, and barriers to recovery.
3. Preparation: Ready for Change
The preparation stage is when an individual has made the decision to change. They may begin taking small steps toward recovery, such as cutting back on substance use or researching treatment options. At this point, they are no longer just thinking about recovery but preparing to take meaningful action.
This stage is where a person starts to map out a plan for their sobriety. Some individuals may begin to incorporate harm reduction strategies, seek advice from healthcare professionals, attend support group meetings, or tell friends and family about their decisions.
This is a critical time for setting realistic goals and identifying the right resources, whether that means entering an inpatient treatment center, starting outpatient therapy, or joining a 12-step program.
4. Action: Making Change Happen
In the action stage, the individual actively works on implementing the changes they have prepared for. This often includes entering an addiction treatment program, attending therapy sessions, and developing new coping mechanisms to deal with stress or triggers. The action stage requires significant commitment, as it often involves a complete lifestyle shift.
During this stage, the individual is immersed in the process of recovery. They may be detoxing from substances, undergoing counseling, and building a sober support network.
This stage is not only about adopting new behaviors and strategies that support long-term recovery—it’s also a time when relapse risk is higher, so having a structured support system is crucial. Encouragement and accountability from loved ones and professionals can help maintain their momentum.
5. Maintenance: Sustaining Change
The final stage is maintenance, where the individual has achieved sobriety and is focused on maintaining their progress. The main goal in this stage is to avoid relapse by continuing to practice healthy habits, attending support groups, and seeking help when needed. It’s important to recognize that maintenance is about staying vigilant and committed to long-term recovery.
In the maintenance stage, individuals are focused on staying sober and building a life that supports this commitment. This might include making significant lifestyle changes, such as avoiding environments that promote substance use or cutting ties with friends who still engage in those behaviors.
This stage also emphasizes the importance of ongoing therapy and the participation in aftercare programs. Relapse prevention strategies become vital, as staying on the path of recovery requires continuous effort.
The Stages of Change and Addiction Recovery
The stages of change model provides a helpful framework for understanding the process of addiction recovery. It emphasizes that recovery is not a linear journey but one that may involve moving between stages.
For instance, someone in the action stage may experience a setback and revert to contemplation or preparation. This is normal, and understanding the stage a person is in can help guide appropriate responses and support.
By recognizing where you or your loved one is in this cycle, it becomes easier to offer the right kind of support. Whether it’s encouraging them to think about the consequences of their addiction in the contemplation stage or helping them find the right resources during preparation, meeting them where they are can make a significant difference in their recovery journey.
Embrace Every Stage of Your Recovery Journey With Lumina Recovery
Recovery from addiction is a challenging, lifelong process that involves moving through various stages of change. Each stage brings its own set of challenges, but with the right support, individuals can progress toward a healthier, substance-free life. Understanding these stages not only provides clarity but also helps set realistic expectations for recovery.
Lumina Recovery offers dual diagnosis services and therapy programs that address both addiction and underlying mental health conditions, ensuring that individuals in each stage of recovery receive the tailored care they need to achieve lasting sobriety.
If you or someone you love is ready to take the next step toward lasting recovery, reach out to Lumina Recovery for compassionate support and guidance.
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