5 Tips for Staying Sober
You’ve done the work to become clean and sober, and you want to do what you can to stay that way. Here are five great tips that will help you safeguard your freedom from a substance use disorder.
Are You Ready for Recovery? Understanding the Stages of Change
One of the most common questions people ask—either for themselves or a loved one—is: “Are they ready to change?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. That’s because recovery isn’t just a decision—it’s a process. And like any meaningful change, it unfolds in stages.
In this post, we’ll break down the Stages of Change model, a tool used by addiction counselors to meet people where they are—and support them as they move toward recovery.
The 6 Stages of Change
Developed by psychologists Prochaska and DiClemente, this model helps explain how people move from addiction toward lasting recovery.
1. Precontemplation – "I don’t have a problem."
At this stage, the person isn’t considering change. They may not recognize the consequences of their substance use or may feel hopeless about change.
What helps:
- Gentle, non-judgmental education
- Listening instead of pushing
- Helping them explore their values and goals
2. Contemplation – "Maybe I need help."
Here, the person starts to see that their substance use may be an issue. They’re ambivalent—torn between reasons to change and reasons to keep using.
What helps:
- Exploring pros and cons of change
- Motivational interviewing
- Building hope and confidence
3. Preparation – "I’m ready to try."
Now, the person is getting ready to act. They may be researching programs, talking to counselors, or making a plan.
What helps:
- Support in choosing a treatment option
- Clear information about next steps
- Encouragement to set small, manageable goals
4. Action – "I’m making changes."
This is the stage where treatment begins—whether outpatient therapy, IOP, or another recovery plan. The person is actively working on sobriety.
What helps:
- Structured support and accountability
- Coping skills training
- Peer/community support
5. Maintenance – "I’m staying on track."
The person has made changes and is working to avoid relapse. They’re learning how to live a fulfilling life without substances.
What helps:
- Continued counseling or peer support
- Healthy routines and boundaries
- Plans for handling triggers and stress
6. Relapse – "I slipped." (Optional stage)
Relapse isn’t guaranteed—but it is common. It doesn’t mean failure. It’s a chance to reassess, learn, and begin again with more insight.
What helps:
- Compassion, not shame
- A quick return to treatment
- Learning from what led to the slip
Why This Matters
Understanding the stages of change can help reduce shame and increase patience—with yourself or with someone you care about.
Important: People don’t move through these stages in a straight line. Progress isn’t always forward. That’s okay. Support works best when it matches the stage a person is actually in—not where we want them to be.
Ready or Just Curious? You're in the Right Place
Whether you’re thinking about change or already taking action, outpatient programs can support you at any stage. Recovery begins with honest reflection—and a safe place to talk.
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