Maintenance Stage

In the Maintenance Stage many people benefit from learning the difference between a lapse and a total relapse, (a complete collapse back into the old way). Being prepared to recognize a lapse and take immediate action can save the effort.

The work in the maintenance stage is having a continued commitment to sustaining a new behavior during the period from 6 months to 5 years after the change

It is helpful to have a plan for follow-up support

Learning how to reinforce internal rewards, how to recognize the successes, is important

This is a time when it is important to discuss coping with relapse

Relapse:

Resumption of old behaviors: “Fall from grace”

Evaluate trigger for relapse

Reassess motivation and barriers

Plan stronger coping strategies