Addiction recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. For many, it involves distinct stages that, when understood, can make the path forward feel clearer and even a bit more manageable. Whether you’re personally facing addiction or supporting a loved one through it, knowing these stages can provide insight into the process. This understanding is key for anyone aiming to make lasting change in their life. Let’s dive into the stages of change in addiction recovery and explore how The Way Recovery Centre, led by Dr. Jolandi Meyer, offers personalized support every step of the way.
What Are the Stages of Change in Addiction Recovery?
The Stages of Change Model, often called the Transtheoretical Model, is a framework that maps out the emotional and mental shifts people go through during addiction recovery. Developed by psychologists James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente, this model highlights that recovery isn’t always a linear path; instead, it includes ups, downs, and sometimes even loops. Each stage represents a unique phase in the journey, marked by specific thought patterns, behaviors, and challenges.
The stages are:
- Precontemplation
- Contemplation
- Preparation
- Action
- Maintenance
- Termination
Let’s take a closer look at each stage and discuss how Dr. Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre can help individuals progress through these steps.
1. Precontemplation – “I Don’t Have a Problem”
In the precontemplation stage, people typically don’t see their behaviour as problematic. Denial often plays a huge role here. Whether it’s drinking, gambling, or any other addictive behaviour, they may think it’s harmless or manageable.
Common Signs of Precontemplation
- Justifying behaviour: “Everyone has a drink after work!”
- Dismissing concerns: “I’m fine; I don’t have a problem.”
- Avoiding discussions about addiction: “Can we talk about something else?”
This stage can be frustrating for family members and friends who see the problem but feel helpless in urging their loved ones to seek help. Dr. Meyer and the team understand the sensitivity of this phase. They provide family counselling and resources to help loved ones understand the best ways to approach this delicate situation without pushing the person further into denial.
2. Contemplation – “Maybe There’s a Problem Here”
Once someone enters the contemplation stage, they start to recognize that their behaviour might be problematic. However, they’re often caught between understanding the issue and feeling uncertain or unmotivated to take action. This stage is where the seeds of change are planted, although the journey forward can feel uncertain.
Navigating Mixed Feelings
- Fear of failure: “What if I try to quit and I fail?”
- Anxiety about change: “How will I cope without it?”
- Acknowledgement of consequences: “Maybe my gambling is affecting my finances.”
Dr. Meyer’s approach at this stage involves creating a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings without judgment. Through compassionate one-on-one sessions, she helps patients work through the fears and uncertainties that often cloud the desire for change.
3. Preparation – “I Want to Change, but How?”
In the preparation stage, individuals have decided they want to change and begin laying the groundwork for action. They might start researching recovery programs, speaking to professionals, or setting small goals for themselves. This stage is about gathering information and creating a plan.
Key Steps in the Preparation Stage
- Setting initial goals: “I’ll try to limit my drinking to weekends.”
- Looking into support options: “Maybe I’ll attend a group meeting.”
- Telling trusted individuals: “I think I want to make a change.”
At The Way Recovery Centre, Dr. Meyer and the team offer guidance tailored to each person’s specific needs. Whether it’s crafting a personalized plan or discussing inpatient vs. outpatient options, they ensure that patients feel empowered and informed about their choices.
4. Action – “I’m Ready to Change”
The action stage is when individuals actively work to change their behaviour. This phase requires significant commitment and resilience, as it often involves breaking away from familiar routines and learning new coping mechanisms.
Common Challenges During Action
- Facing triggers: “Seeing my old friends makes me want to drink.”
- Dealing with cravings: “It’s so hard to resist the urge to gamble.”
- Building new habits: “How do I handle stress now?”
Dr. Meyer and the team at The Way Recovery Centre are incredibly hands-on during this phase. From medication to counselling sessions to support groups, they offer tools and guidance to help individuals build healthy coping strategies. Patients benefit from therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), designed to reframe thoughts and build resilience against triggers.
5. Maintenance – “I’m Staying on Track”
Maintenance is all about sustaining the progress made during the action phase. During this stage, individuals work on maintaining their new lifestyle and staying vigilant against relapse. This can be challenging, as the initial motivation from the action phase may start to wane.
Tips for Successful Maintenance
- Regular check-ins: “How am I feeling about my recovery today?”
- Continued therapy: “I’ll keep attending sessions to stay strong.”
- Engaging in healthy activities: “I’m exploring hobbies that keep me fulfilled.”
Dr. Meyer emphasizes ongoing support as a cornerstone of recovery. At The Way Recovery Centre, patients have access to continuous counselling and support groups to help them navigate the maintenance phase. Building a support network and having a routine check-in plan can make all the difference during this critical period.
6. Termination – “I’m Free from Addiction”
For many, reaching the termination stage signifies the end of the recovery journey. They no longer feel the same urges or pressures to revert to old behaviours, and they’ve built a life that doesn’t revolve around addiction. However, it’s essential to note that not everyone reaches this stage in the same way, and for some, the goal might be to stay in maintenance.
Life After Addiction
- Celebrating milestones: “One year sober – I did it!”
- Reflecting on the journey: “Look how far I’ve come.”
- Inspiring others: “If I can do it, so can you.”
The Way Recovery Centre celebrates these victories with patients, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. Dr. Meyer encourages individuals to share their experiences with others, which can be a powerful way to give back to the community and inspire those who may be in earlier stages of change.
For information on our 28-day in-patient programme with professional qualified medical detox from addiction and a platform of different approaches to addicts suffering from long-term gambling, alcohol and/or drug addiction, get in touch with Dr. Jolandi Meyer at The Way Recovery – Gambling, Drug & Alcohol Abuse Treatment Facility in Pretoria. A six-week outpatient programme with individual counselling, group therapy, and family support is also available from The Way Recovery.
The Way Recovery Halfway House in Pretoria offers a reintegration, aftercare programme to aid the addict who has finished a detox programme in adjusting to society for the recovering addict who still struggles.
How Dr. Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre Can Support Your Journey
Every stage in the journey to recovery brings unique challenges, emotions, and breakthroughs. Having a dedicated support system like Dr. Meyer and The Way Recovery Centre can provide the guidance, understanding, and tools needed to make meaningful progress. Dr. Meyer and the team specialize in offering personalized care to help each person navigate their path toward a healthier, addiction-free life.
Whether you’re at the beginning stages of contemplation or working hard to maintain your progress, know that help is available. Dr. Meyer’s compassionate approach, combined with The Way Recovery Centre’s comprehensive programs, ensures that every individual receives the support they need. Together, they offer not just a treatment plan but a lifeline.
Recovering from addiction is often challenging but ultimately empowering. By understanding the stages of change in addiction recovery, individuals and their loved ones can gain valuable insight into what lies ahead. Dr. Jolandi Meyer and the dedicated team at The Way Recovery Centre in Pretoria are here to provide the care and support needed to turn the hope for change into a lasting reality. Whether you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, remember: change is possible, and help is just a call away.
Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment. Her practice is located in Garsfontein, Pretoria on the same premises as The Way Recovery Centre.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.