We've all heard of the Pre-contemplative, Action, and Maintenance stages of the drug rehabilitation program. But what exactly are these stages and how do they differ from each other? To answer that question, let's first define the Pre-contemplative stage. If we consider the tree as a metaphor, this phase is where a person's outward addiction becomes entrenched. During this stage, the addict starts to cut back and then chop down the tree. In fact, many people stop in this phase because they can't see the tree anymore.

Pre-contemplative stage

In the pre-contemplative stage, an addict has not yet fully understood his addiction or his need for help. He may not even acknowledge that he has a problem, and is just going through the motions. He may also have a tendency to blame others for his behavior. But, at this stage, he is more open to the idea of getting help and learning to manage his addiction.

At this stage, the addict has little knowledge of how the addiction is affecting his or her health. In addition, they have little knowledge of the harmful consequences of the substance they are abusing. Consequently, they may remain in the pre-contemplative stage longer. Ultimately, they may not have a clear plan, but they will be open to different solutions. And if they do come to realize that they need help, they are more likely to accept the help that they will receive.

Contemplative stage

The Contemplative stage of drug rehab recovery is the time during which the addict weighs the benefits and disadvantages of changing their behavior. During this time, they often feel ambivalent about their actions and are hesitant to change. The addict may also doubt the benefits of recovery. During this time, he or she will become more open to advice, serious conversations, and other means of dealing with the addiction.

During this time, the person will make the commitment to change. They will make plans for how to do it, research available resources, and consider their options. Some people will even attend 12-step meetings or comprehensive treatment programs to support their recovery. However, they might be too far gone to fully commit themselves at this point. As such, the Contemplative stage is critical. But the positive aspects of this stage of drug rehab recovery cannot be overlooked.

Action stage

Taking the first steps toward treatment is a key component of the recovery process. An addict must acknowledge the problem that they are experiencing and decide to change. Sometimes this step is called recognition, while other times it is called acknowledgment. Regardless of the terminology, the key component is that the addict admits to the problem, and develops a desire to solve it. In this phase, a person must learn more about addiction and the effects it can have on their life.

After treatment, recovering alcoholics move to the maintenance phase. This period can last anywhere from six months to several years. During this phase, the person learns new skills to prevent relapse. This stage includes strategies for stress-relieving and staying away from triggers. Patients learn to have fun without alcohol and develop coping mechanisms. Abstaining from alcohol for a longer time will also help repair the liver.

Maintenance stage

The maintenance stage of drug rehab recovery is where the addict learns to deal with stress and anxiety. This stage can last anywhere from six months to five years. During this time, the addict's new sober lifestyle has become his new normal. The action and preparation stages are crucial, as they can help him avoid relapse. This stage also stresses that sobriety does not occur on its own; it must be worked for and managed by the individual.

Despite its importance, few health-promoting programs mention the maintenance stage. However, it is one of the most important points in addiction recovery, since those who did not receive treatment are more likely to relapse. As a result, people in addiction recovery must work to practice virtues associated with this stage. In addition to the benefits of recovery, these programs also promote the recovery process and make it possible for addicts to continue living a sober life.