Introduction
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of addiction in clients requires an understanding of the various stages of change in the addiction cycle. The stages of addiction, as aligned with the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change, include pre-contemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, maintenance, and termination.
Symptoms of Addiction Recovery Stages
Pre-Contemplation
In the pre-contemplation stage, clients may not recognize that they have an addiction problem or may be in denial about their situation. They often rationalize their behavior and may be resistant to discussing their substance use. Signs include a lack of self-awareness regarding substance use, defensiveness when the topic is brought up, and an absence of expressed desire to change.
Contemplation
During the contemplation stage, individuals start to acknowledge that their addiction may be causing problems. There can be an ambivalence about change, where they weigh the pros and cons. Clients may express concerns about their substance use and its impacts on their health or relationships, but they are not yet ready to commit to change (Norcross & Krebs, 2020).
Preparation
The preparation stage is characterized by the client’s decision to change shortly. They may begin to take small steps toward recovery, such as researching treatment options or discussing their concerns with loved ones. Signs include verbalizing intent to change, setting goals, and possibly experimenting with small behavior changes.
Action
In the action stage, clients actively engage in strategies to quit or reduce their substance use. This stage involves considerable commitment and effort, and clients will exhibit behaviors such as attending support groups and therapy sessions and abstaining from substances. They may also seek resources and support systems to aid in their recovery.
Maintenance
Maintenance involves sustaining the behavior change over time and preventing relapse. Clients may show signs of developing new coping strategies, continuing engagement in support networks, and demonstrating a consistent commitment to sobriety (Schumacher & Milby, 2019).
Termination
The termination stage is when the individual no longer desires the substance and has complete confidence that they can cope without it. This stage is rarely achieved in addiction, as the risk of relapse is always present, but some individuals may reach a point where substance use is no longer a temptation or threat to their well-being.
Conclusion
Understanding these stages and the associated signs can help clinicians provide tailored interventions that meet clients where they are in their journey to recovery.
References
Norcross, J. C., & Krebs, P. M. (2020). Stages of change. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, Practice, Training, 57(1), 3-9.
Schumacher, J. A., & Milby, J. B. (2019). Maintenance of sobriety following addiction treatment: Challenges and solutions. In J. S. Brook & M. S. Shopshire (Eds.), The Wiley Handbook of What Works in Addiction Treatment (pp. 121-134). Wiley.