Mental Health
A college student, Aaliyah, is constantly stressed, has trouble sleeping, and lashes out at her friends. When her roommate suggests she see a counselor, she laughs it off, saying, “Everyone’s stressed — it’s just part of college life.”
What is the Precontemplation Stage?
Maria drinks several glasses of wine every evening to unwind after work. Her friends have expressed concern about her drinking, but she insists, “It’s just how I relax — everyone drinks.” She doesn’t believe her behavior is harmful and has no intention of cutting back.
What is the Precontemplation Stage
Samantha finally calls a therapist her friend recommended and schedules an intake appointment. She’s nervous but hopeful, and she’s journaling daily to track her mood before the first session. “I don’t know if it’ll fix everything,” she says, “but I’m tired of feeling stuck.”
What is the Preparation Stage?
DeShawn started taking prescription pain medication after knee surgery but now notices he feels “off” when he doesn’t take them. He confides in a coworker, “I don’t think I’m addicted… but maybe I’m getting too used to them.” He’s researching withdrawal symptoms online and considering calling his doctor but hasn’t acted yet.
What is the Contemplation Stage?
Amanda attends weekly therapy sessions and is honest with her therapist about her mood swings and low motivation. She follows through on small homework assignments like daily gratitude lists and scheduling enjoyable activities. She’s also started a low-dose antidepressant prescribed by her primary care doctor and reports improved sleep and energy.
What is the Action Stage?
After realizing how much drinking has affected his family, Aaron tells his partner, “I think I’m ready to cut back or even quit.” He searches online for local AA meetings and sets a goal to go one week without drinking. He’s also talking with a friend who has been sober for two years for advice.
What is the Preparation Stage?
April continues to thrive years after therapy. She uses the tools she learned naturally — maintaining balance, connection, and gratitude. When life stressors arise, she trusts her ability to manage them. She hasn’t needed therapy sessions for over a year but knows she could return if needed without stigma.
What is the Termination Stage?
William has been opioid-free for nine months and continues attending a support group twice a week. He’s found new fulfillment coaching his son’s basketball team and exercising regularly. When pain flares up, he uses stretching, meditation, and non-opioid medication. He occasionally feels tempted but reminds himself of how far he’s come.
What is the Maintenance Stage?
After months of progress, Rebecca stopped attending therapy because she felt “fine.” Over time, work stress and lack of structure caused her to isolate and skip meals. She began sleeping all day again and recognized familiar depressive symptoms returning. She reached out to her therapist to resume sessions and rebuild her coping plan.
What is the Relapse Stage?
Bill has been sober for five years. He no longer feels triggered by social events or stress and can attend gatherings where alcohol is present without discomfort. He mentors others in recovery and feels pride, not temptation, when reflecting on his past. Sobriety is now part of who he is, not something he’s trying to maintain.
What is the Termination Stage?