Increasing Motivation & Readiness for Change Preparation | Addiction and Mental Health Recovery
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Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes discusses the third stage of readiness for change, which is the preparation stage. In this stage, individuals have recognized that they have a problem and have decided to take action. They are now focused on figuring out what they need to do to make the necessary changes. It is important for them to clarify their goals and strategies for change. They need to determine how they will approach the change process, such as checking into residential treatment, seeing a therapist, or using self-help resources.
Dr. Snipes suggests an activity where individuals spend about 50 minutes visualizing change. They can create a collage of the positive aspects of recovery on a poster board or online. This helps them envision what their life will look like once they have achieved their recovery goals. They should also identify the first steps they need to take towards each aspect of their recovery, such as improving relationships.
Other preparation activities include writing a letter to oneself from the future, describing what life is like at that point in detail. Another activity involves writing down the directions to "destination recovery" and identifying any obstacles along the way. Individuals should also consider how they will manage other aspects of their life while focusing on their recovery, just like planning for tasks and responsibilities when going on a trip.
Overall, the preparation stage is about getting ready to make a change and taking the necessary steps to ensure success. It involves clarifying goals, visualizing change, identifying first steps, and planning for the challenges that may arise.
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes discusses the third stage of readiness for change, which is the preparation st