The Stages of Change in Addiction

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At this stage, people are not yet aware of the negative behavior they need to change. They don’t see their behavior as a problem and aren’t interested in getting help. They may become defensive if someone pressures them to change. They also avoid speaking, reading, or thinking about it. They may also absorb information about this problem from family, friends, or the media, but won’t take action until they see it as problematic.

At this stage, people are aware of the negative consequences or problems. But they’re not yet ready to change their unhealthy behavior. They do start thinking about it, however. They know it’s necessary to change but aren’t ready. They might weigh the pros and cons and whether the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term effort. This stage can last a few days or an entire lifetime, depending on the individual.

This is the phase when a person is ready to make a change. They become committed to changing and motivated to take the necessary steps. They read, talk, and gather information about their problem, as well as solutions (recovery programs like SMART, possible rehabs, telling friends & family etc.) The preparation stage is crucial to the success of behaviour change. Skipping this stage can drastically decrease your chances of success.

At this stage, people use the strategies they learned in the previous phase to start a new, healthy behavior.  This takes willpower, and there is a high risk of failure and slipping back into old behavior and habits. It can help to avoid external temptation and set rewards for achieving intermediate goals. The support of others is also essential at this stage.  The action  stage may include deciding to go to rehab.

(Usually lasts around 4 - 6 weeks)

In this stage, people have made progress and realised the benefits of changing.  They understand that maintaining change will require effort, but they are aware of its value. They create strategies to prevent relapse until the new habit becomes familiar and natural. Attending SMART meetings regularly is a great way of maintaining your sobriety.

(Usually 3 months - 3 years of mostly continued abstinence)

This is where your past addictions no longer take up much place in your thoughts and in your life at all. You consider yourself at no greater risk than anyone else to use.  Congratulations.  You have recovered and graduated recovery (AKA the maintenance stage)!

Remember, never lose your vigilance, and you are always still welcome at SMART meetings.

A good analogy to use with those who disagree with you, is would they call someone who stopped smoking 7 years ago a smoker?

People will generally reach this stage after 2 - 4 years of mostly continuous abstinence. Only you will know.