According to a widely used Stages of Change model that was first developed in the 1970s, coming to terms with your addiction and exploring options for treatment happens in the “Preparation Stage” of change. Perhaps you know you struggle with addiction, but you are not sure yet if you are ready to change; this would place you in the “Contemplation Stage.”
Let’s take a look at each stage of change in order, as well as how they apply to addiction:
Stage 1: Precontemplation. Addicts who are in the Precontemplation Stage have not yet acknowledged that they have problematic behaviours that should be changed. Often, addicts in this stage are “in denial” about the addiction, but many in this stage are simply unaware that they have a problem. If you have a friend or loved one that struggles with addiction but does not acknowledge his/her problematic behaviours, this can be very frustrating. While it might be tempting to push someone into changing, addicted individuals need to personally be aware of their problem before change can begin.
Stage 2: Contemplation. In the Contemplation Stage, the addicted individual acknowledges that they have a problem. However, they are still not quite ready or unsure if they want to take steps toward recovery. This is a very important step on the path to changing addictive and unhealthy behaviours. If you know someone in this stage, be supportive of them as they move forward in this process of change.
Stage 3: Preparation. This is the stage where the addict makes plans for treatment and takes their first steps toward achieving their goals. In a sense, the Preparation Stage is about making small steps toward bigger goals. These steps might include a sexual addict limiting their number of sexual partners or encounters, or an alcoholic cutting down on their alcohol intake. This stage also involves exploring resources (such as this article) and reaching out to others for help, including professional counsellors, community groups, friends and family.
Stage 4: Action. It is during the Action Stage that an addict implements concrete changes in their life. This could include practicing abstinence from problematic behaviours, going to individual and/or group therapy on a regular basis, and taking medications (if needed). In this stage, an addict might explore various forms of treatment and figure out what works best for them. A strong commitment to change is present in this stage. As with all the stages, it is important for friends and family to support the addict during this time of change.
Stage 5: Maintenance and Relapse Prevention. The final stage in the progression of change is maintaining the new behaviours learned in Stage 4, as well as taking measures to prevent relapsing into old behaviours. This stage is crucial, as it can take many years before new behaviours turn into permanent habits. During this stage, a counsellor or therapist can help addicts identify their personal triggers for relapse and work with the addict to anticipate and avoid relapse.
If you suffer from addiction, no matter where you are in the Stages of Change, you can be assured that change is possible and that there are plenty of resources available to you to make it happen. It is never too late to overcome addiction and make positive, lasting changes in your life.
