The stages of change or transtheoretical model is a way of describing the process by which peopleovercome addiction.
This model was developed from research looking at how change occurs in natural recovery from addictions.
Maintenance and relapse are also sometimes included as additional stages.
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People in the precontemplation stage typically do not consider their behavior to be a problem.
People in this stage usually experience their addictive behavior as a positive or pleasant experience.
However, negative consequences do eventually affect people engaging in addictive behaviors.
Image © Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
These negative consequences can push the individual into the “contemplation stage.
The Contemplation Stage
The word “contemplation” essentially means to consider or think about something deeply.
People with addictions may be in the contemplation stages for many years.
Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
Contemplators typically benefit from non-judgmental information-giving and motivational approaches to encouraging change (rather than confrontational methods).
If you need help from a counselor or social worker, this is the time to get it.
They may also be able to help you with other preparations.
Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
Once the necessary preparations have been made, a person is typically ready to move onto the action stage.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
The Action Stage
The action stage is the focus for many people attempting to overcome addiction.
Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
This is the stage at which real changechange of behaviorstarts happening.The action stage is typically stressful.
But with good preparation, it can also be an exciting time that gives way to new options.
For many people, the action stage starts in a detox or treatment center.
Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
Here, trained professionals provide support through the early phases of discontinuing an addiction.
It may feel strange and even empty to be living life without your addiction.
Identifying and developing effective ways of coping with stress are crucial during the action stage.
Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
This will allow you to effectively move on to the maintenance stage without experiencing the relapse stage.
In reality, the outcome of the process of change is highly individual.
Some people are able to adjust tocontrolled drinking, drug use, or addictive behaviors without becoming addicted.
Image: Elizabeth Hartney, 2011
For others, abstinence is the only way to keep their addiction under control.
Sometimes it is only after several relapses that a person discovers what recovery from an addiction means for them.
Find out which option is the best for you.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Drugs, brains, and behavior: The science of addiction.
