Stage 1: Acknowledgement of Addiction At this stage, the addict realizes that they have a problem. The person struggling with addiction may continue to abuse drugs or alcohol because they have not yet accepted that they truly need help. This particular stage is a learning experience where the addict stops denying that they have a problem and starts moving toward wanting to do something about it. Stage 2: Awareness of Addiction Once they start to accept their situation, addicts will become more aware of how their behavior and actions have hurt both their family and friends and their jobs. During this stage, they may not have fully given up using substances, but are gradually realizing how their addiction is ruining their lives. Stage 3: Recovery Exploration At first, some addicts feel they can wean themselves off a substance. They may cut back and try to abstain from using. However, after several failed attempts, they will ultimately realize that they cannot do it alone. This is when the person struggling with addiction will start to seek outside help, either by attending support group meetings or checking themselves into a qualified treatment program. Stage 4: Start Addiction Recovery This stage can be a risky time for addicts. They are just learning how they can survive without the use of substances. They are also attempting to mend relationships they damaged because of their addiction. Once they are able to accept their mistakes and realize that the main thing is to carry on, then they can start to learn new coping skills and healthy eating habits, as well as a workout routine, so they can focus on living a substance-free life. Stage 5: Ongoing Aftercare and Recovery Kicking a substance abuse habit does not end once you stop using. It requires ongoing maintenance to avoid relapsing. At this stage, the recoverer will have developed better coping skills, identified triggers for the addiction, and have a well-built support network to turn to when they are having difficulties in maintaining a drug-free lifestyle. Even at this stage, relapses can occur, so addicts should be honest with themselves. Recovering addicts must work just as hard, or even harder than they did at the other stages in order to continue enjoying the new life they have built.