What are the stages of change in recovery?

The stages of change in recovery, as identified in the Transtheoretical Model, include precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. This model outlines the process that individuals typically go through when changing a behavior, particularly in the context of addiction and recovery.

Each stage represents a different point in the change process, allowing for a structured understanding of how individuals transition from thinking about change to actively making and sustaining those changes. In precontemplation, individuals may not yet recognize that they have a problem. In contemplation, they start to think about the possibility of change. Preparation is where they begin to plan for action, which involves making concrete steps toward change. Once in the action stage, individuals actively engage in behaviors that support their recovery. Finally, maintenance is the ongoing effort to sustain the behavior change and prevent relapse.

Understanding these stages is crucial for recovery peer specialists, as it helps them to provide the right support and interventions tailored to where their clients are in the change journey, facilitating more effective and appropriate support.