Later Stages

"People in the Action stage have changed their behavior within the last six months and need to work hard to keep moving ahead. They need to learn how to strengthen their commitments to change and fight urges to slip back. They can progress by using techniques such as substituting activities related to the unhealthy behavior with positive ones, rewarding themselves for taking steps toward changing, and avoiding people and situations that tempt them to behave in unhealthy ways. People in the Maintenance stage changed their behavior more than six months ago. It is important for them to be aware of situations that may tempt them to slip back into the unhealthy behavior, particularly stressful situations. They are recommended to seek support from and talk with trusted people, spend time with people who behave in healthy ways, and engage in healthy activities to cope with stress instead of relying on unhealthy behavior. Relapse in the transtheoretical model specifically applies to individuals who successfully quit smoking or using drugs or alcohol, only to resume these unhealthy behaviors. Individuals who attempt to quit highly addictive behaviors such as drug, alcohol, and tobacco use are at particularly high risk of relapse. Achieving long-term behavior change often requires ongoing support from family members, a health coach, a physician, or another motivational source. Supportive literature and other resources can also be helpful in avoiding relapse."