Stages of Change - Relapse

Whether striving for sustained sobriety, regular exercise, healthy eating habits or smoking cessation, RELAPSE (the sixth Stage of Change) is not only common, but also a normal part of the change process. While a relapse may be discouraging, it is important that you do not allow a sense of failure to halt your progress. Instead, consider these steps:

• Look at your “slip” as a minor setback and an opportunity to learn and become stronger.
  Quickly reassess your motivation and barriers to change; restart the process again at the preparation, action, or even the maintenance stage.
• Get the facts. What people, places, stressors or attitudes might be related to the relapse?  How will they be avoided in the future?
• Ask for help to brainstorm more effective coping strategies. Contact FSAP if you need help in this area.
• Give permission to your support people to help hold you accountable.

Remember, the idea behind the Stages of Change Model is that behavior change does not happen in one step. You may cycle though the stages several times before achieving a lasting lifestyle change.

Return to the Stages of Change

Return to Step UP Emory